How to Change to a DSL Modem

Many communication companies and Internet Service Providers (ISP) offer a range of DSL services. When you subscribe, they will usually provide all the hardware you need, many time free of charge as a sales promotion. Once your service is activated, changing to the new DSL modem is rather easy. You will need to have a phone jack located near your computer and an ethernet connection on the computer you intend to use with the DSL modem.

Things You'll Need

• DSL filters for phone lines
• DSL filters for computer lines
• 2 Cat5 or Cat6 ethernet cables

Instructions

1. Install DSL filters on all phone jacks in the home that are in use. It is a good idea to include the ones not in use as well, but it is not necessary. The filters for the phone lines plug into the jack and have a single plug for the phone line. The filters for the computer lines have plugs for the jack, phone line and ethernet connection.

2. Plug one end of a Cat5 or Cat6 cable into the ethernet connection on the filter and the other end into the DSL modem. The input connection should be indicated with either a label, color or both.

3. Plug one end of the other Cat5 or Cat6 cable into the output connection on the DSL modem and the other end into the ethernet connection for the computer.

4. Follow the instructions from your communications company or ISP to ensure the DSL signal is active and to initialize your modem. Because there are so many companies and so many models of DSL modems, these instructions could vary widely. If in doubt, contact your service provider.

5. Most computers and operating systems will automatically detect the new DSL signal and connect to it. If your computer does not, set up a new Internet connection manually using whatever commands your operating system requires. This also could vary greatly from platform to platform.

Tips & Warnings

• Filters must be installed properly or the DSL signal will interfere negatively with the phone signal.