How to Set Up a DSL Line

DSL line installation.

A DSL line is set up using your existing phone line, so installation only takes a few minutes. Most DSL service providers will send you an installation kit that includes everything you need to get started. To set up a DSL line, all you need is a DSL modem or router and a new DSL account.

Things You'll Need

• Phone filters
• DSL modem or router
• Phone cord
• Ethernet or USB cable
• Installation CD

Instructions

1. Make sure your service is established. Some DSL providers will send a modem before the official service date. You won't be able to connect to the Internet before your service start date, so make sure your service is active before you install everything.

2. Install phone filters. You won't need a phone filter for your DSL modem, but you will need them for any other phone devices, including fax machines and TV receivers. Phone filters are small plastic devices that are plugged into the end of the phone line, then plugged into the phone jack.

3. Plug in the modem. Wait for the power light to come on. It may flicker for a few seconds before the light turns solid. Once it does, insert a telephone cord into the Line or WAN port of your modem or router. Insert the other end directly into a phone jack.

4. Connect the modem or router to the computer with an Ethernet or USB cable. If you're using a DSL router with several Ethernet ports, any one of them can be used. The Ethernet light will blink to show data is being transferred.

5. Insert the installation CD that came from your DSL service provider. If you didn't receive an installation CD, open a web browser on your computer and your service provider's web page should automatically open for you to enter your username and password. If it doesn't, open the Control Panel (Windows) or System Preferences (Mac) and choose Network (either operating system) to enter your DSL login.

References

• Microsoft: Set Up a DSL or Cable Connection
• Qwest: DSL Modems