How to Use DSL

DSL (Digital Subscriber Line) is an Internet connectivity option offered by many Internet service providers for a monthly fee. In order to use the DSL service, you must have a phone line that qualifies for the service as well as the appropriate hardware.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• A computer with a 10/100Mbps Ethernet adapter
• DSL modem
• DSL filters

1. Ensure that you have at least a 10/100Mbps (megabit per second) Ethernet adapter, also known as a NIC (Network Interface Card) installed in your computer. Most modern computers come with a NIC installed. However, if you are uncertain, you can check the device manager software on your computer for the installed hardware or contact your computer manufacturer. Check the device manager in Microsoft Windows by opening the Control Panel and then open the Device Manager.

2. Contact the Internet service provider (ISP) of your choice and ask to subscribe to DSL service. The ISP will perform a phone line test to determine whether your line qualifies for DSL service. If it qualifies, the ISP will proceed with your subscription and ship you a DSL modem.

3. Connect your DSL modem to your computer. First connect one end of the included Ethernet (Cat5) cable to the DSL modem. Connect the other end of the cable to the "Ethernet" port of your computer. This port will appear similar to a telephone jack port, but will be slightly wider.

4. Connect a standard telephone cable directly from a telephone jack into the telephone port on your DSL modem.

5. Place DSL filters on all of the lines leading to the telephones in your home as well as the lines for other devices such as alarm systems and fax machines. In order to install the filters you must first remove the telephone cables from the telephone sockets and plug the filters directly into the sockets. Plug the telephone cables for each phone or device directly into the filters. Do not filter the telephone cable that was plugged into the DSL modem.

6. Power on your DSL modem and computer. Watch the DSL modem's lights to confirm that you have a connection to the data network. The lights on the modem will vary depending on the make of the modem.

7. Open the Internet browser of your choice on your computer and begin browsing the Internet with your new DSL connection.

References

• About DSL
• DSL Filters

Resources

• DSL Tests & Tools

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