How to Install AT&T DSL

DSL (Digital Subscriber Line) falls under the heading of broadband Internet connectivity. Unlike the other popular choice, the cable modem (which works using the same lines that cable television does), DSL uses traditional phone lines, but in a way that is far faster than the option of connecting with a standard dial-up modem. Some advantages of DSL are that the initial costs can be lower, and a new installation rarely requires rewiring (except in the case of very old buildings). AT&T is a leading provider of local and long distance telephone services in the United States, following its merger with both Yahoo! and SBC.

Things You'll Need

• Ethernet RJ-45 cable

Instructions

1. 

   Sign up for AT&T's DSL service. Go to att.com to register, or use the contact link to find the phone number that is dedicated to your type of account. There are different plans for residential users as well as business accounts, and usually there are special offers, discounts or incentives at any given time. If you plan on connecting more than one computer or want a wireless router with your DSL modem, inform the sales rep.

2. 

   Attach the DSL modem to your phone jack using a standard RJ-11 telephone cable. Your DSL service is based on the phone number you use, so if you have multiple lines, confirm that you are connected to a jack that services the phone number that is linked with your service.

3. 

   Connect the filters that came with your modem to all other phones that are on the same line as the DSL service. Include fax machines and any other devices that are connected via telephone service.

4. 

   Use an Ethernet RJ-45 cable to connect your computer to your new DSL modem. Use the enclosed CD to configure your computer to work with your DSL service. You will need your user name, password and account number. This information is included in a welcome letter, and usually arrives a few days before the package that contains the DSL modem arrives.

5. 

   Configure the wireless part of your modem/router if you opted for it. Your goal should be to create a secure wireless network, so choose a password that isn't an obvious choice. The best bet is to use a combination of letters, numbers and symbols and mix capital letters within it.

6. 

   Launch a Web browser to confirm your DSL service is working. Reboot the DSL modem if there's an error, but since the installation wizard is almost foolproof, chances are things will work seamlessly, as part of the setup process indicates whether the DSL modem is able to access the Internet.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep your DSL modem in a place where it won't be kicked, stepped on or damaged in any way.

• Computers that are connected wirelessly are not quite as fast as computers that are wired to the modem/router.

• Check to see if there are any discounts or incentives before signing up, and don't be afraid to ask the sales rep if there are any undocumented special offers.

• File your welcome letter somewhere where you'll be able to reference it in a hurry if necessary.

• If you live in an older building, you may have to pay for some rewiring that is required for DSL service.

Resources

• AT&T -- Home Page
• AT&T -- Residential DSL
• AT&T -- Small Business DSL