How to Connect a Modem to a Multi-Line Phone System

The lights on the modem will be green to indicate that it's working.

Modems are required for an Internet connection that connects through the telephone. Many people have only one telephone line, but if you have more, it might change the installation process. What matters is whether each line carries an Internet connection and just what type (dial-up or broadband) is being used.

Instructions

Dial-Up

1. Plug a short telephone cord (6 feet or less) from the modem into the phone jack. It doesn't matter which line you choose.

2. Plug in the modem and turn it on if it is an external modem.

3. Wait for Windows to identify and install the modem (Vista and Windows 7). If it doesn't, insert the installation disc provided with the modem and click "Next" repeatedly until you see "Finish." If the software does not automatically launch, go to "My Computer" and double-click the DVD drive icon (usually drive letter D).

4. Use the separate line to make calls or faxes whenever the other modem is online, or you may get disconnected from the Internet.

DSL

1. Plug the modem to the wall with the power cord and turn it on (if applicable).

2. Plug a filter into every phone jack that is being used, even if it's just an answering machine or other non-Internet device. The filter is used to separate the DSL signal from the telephone signal. You don't need to install filters on any lines that do not have DSL.

3. Attach the phone cord provided with the modem to the filter. Plug the other end into the back of the modem where it says "Line." It may contain a picture of a phone jack.

4. Place the yellow Ethernet cable into the Ethernet port in the back of the computer. The jack will look identical to a phone jack, only larger. Plug the other end into the modem where it says "Ethernet."

5. Insert the DSL installation CD and follow the set-up screen in the installation menu to automatically detect your connection. This will set up the modem and connect it to the Internet. You may be asked to enter a user name and password at this point. If you received the modem from your Internet Service Provider, contact it to get your login information.

6. Click "Finish" and restart the computer. Once it starts, move the mouse by the Network icon in the bottom right corner. It should say "Connected" or "Local and Internet" if you're connected to a network.

Tips & Warnings

• Some DSL modems do not work well when a filter is connected directly to them. Locate the filter-installation section in your user manual to determine the correct procedure for your brand.

References

• University of North Dakota: DSL Modem Setup Guide

Resources

• Microsoft Support: You Receive a Limited or No Connectivity Message