How Do I Install a DSL Modem on a Laptop?

Examples of common DSL modems

DSL modems are external modems that connect to DSL (Digital Subscriber Lines). DSL Internet is supplied through an existing phone connection, often by a phone company or Internet service provider. One key advantage to this setup is that a single phone line can provide both internet access and telephone access at the same time. Both laptops and desktop computers are capable of connecting to DSL connections.

Things You'll Need

• DSL modem
• Available telephone line
• Ethernet cable
• Wireless router (optional)

Instructions

1. 

   Common Ethernet connection.

   Verify that your laptop has a network Ethernet connection port. You can see an example in the image with this step.

2. Connect the phone line from the phone jack to the back of the DSL modem port labeled either "Connection In" or "Internet in." Plug in the DSL modem to its power supply and wait for the lights on the front to light up.

3. Connect one end of the Ethernet cable to the port on the modem labeled either "Ethernet," "To Computer," or "Connection Out."

4. Connect the other end of the Ethernet cable to the Ethernet port on the side or rear of your laptop.

5. Insert the DSL modem driver software if one was provided by your DSL service provider. Follow the on screen instructions to install the software and restart the laptop when prompted. Note that some DSL providers supply modems that do not require additional software.

Tips & Warnings

• Connect a wireless router to the "Ethernet out" connection from the DSL modem in place of a direct connection to the laptop. This will create a wireless signal that laptops with wireless can connect to.

References

• Cnet: Information about DSL connections