Questions on DSL

[flamingsouls]

Hi all

I found out that DSL is available in my area and I might be able to buget it in. The first question is self installation of the hardware. I read the manual online(ameritech.com) and it looks simple enough...just plug the outlet to a filter and then to a DSL modem. If I pay 49.95 a month from Ameritech, is that how I will get on the internet? I don't need another service do I? With the DSL modem, will I need to get one of those LinkSys Router and Firewall? I do have a D-link network hub. Will a software firewall be ok? I'll be running Windows 2000 Professional. Anyhing else I should know?

thx
Josh

 

[CubicZirconia]

Routers "rout" your internet connection to multiple machines. So, you won't need a router unless you plan on networking multiple machines with access to the internet. A hub can be used to network multiple pcs, although you will still need a router if you want internet access on those pc's. A software firewall will be fine. Honestly, you don't really need a firewall at all. I probably made this explanation confusing, so ask questions if need be.

 

[flamingsouls]

I understand it perfectly...I'm no stranger to computers(I program) I was just wondering about the Linksys being more secure than a firewall. Also, am I correct in thinking that once I pay for the line, I don't have to pay for internet? Meaning the DSL line I pay for is all I need...not like paying for internet service and paying a phone bill?

thx
Josh

 

[CubicZirconia]

As far as I know, the dsl line is your internet. Meaning you won't have 2 bills or anything. The linksys routers have built in hardware firewalls which are technically better than software firewalls.

 

[JackMDS]

DSL means: Direct Dubscriber Line. In our case, it is your subscription to the Internet.

Most DSL services use PPPOE for authentication, and in case of self install insist that you install first their software in order to obtain ID, and Password (authentication).

In such a case you first install the software including the PPPOE program (usually WinPOET), during the installation the Id and Password will appear on the screen (write them down). When every thing work well, and you have a solid Internet service. You can put on the Cable/DSL Router.

You log on to the Router, in the PPPOE menu type username and password. Make sure PPPOE is checked. Set the router to obtain IP automatically (unless you have a static account).

As long as you don't switch off the DSL Modem, and the Router you are connected "forever" (the computer can be switched off). If you switch them off, when you switch them on again, it will take a minute, and the Router will automatically connect to the DSL ISP.

You can uninstall WinPOET and whatever else, the ISP dished you.

The Router's PPPOE capacity is independent from the Computer, and it keeps the connection alive.

Working through the Router in a DSL, connection should yield faster smoother Internet connection (it is estimated that the PPPOE software creates a 5-10% reduction in the speed of the connection).

As for Firewall:

In general, security issues involves:

1. Unauthorized Internet traffic coming in (from the Internet to your computer).

2. Unauthorized Information going out (from your Hard Drive to some one else Web Server).

The latter is done mainly by programs that are ?calling home?. Unfortunately, the amount of programs that are calling home is growing by the day.

The Router?s firewall secures mainly the Incoming traffic, to secure the Outgoing aspect you need to add Software firewall.

Thus, many Router owners use the combination of Hardware, Software Firewall.

Popular software Firewall package is ZoneAlarm (free).

ZoneAlarm Download

You can check your system's security here, log to the following page, scroll down, and click on Shields Up.

Gibson Default Page.

 

[jimmyhaha]

I am using Americr@p, I can tell u that

Americr@p self-installation is a snap..
plug in the filter, plug in the modem, Install NIC, and load their Enternet 300 software..
then u are flying high..

use router if u need to share connection..
I am using HPNA though...

and after u verify everything is OK, uninstall the Enternet software, POS..
goto DSLreports.com and download the RASPPPoE...

 

[Soybomb]

The others seem to have answered the security aspects. As far as cost goes, it all depends. With most DSL services you will have a line charge for the dsl service on your phone line from your phone company, then also a charge from your ISP for the internet content. Check with whoever before you order.

 

[flamingsouls]

OK thanks so much for the replies.


Can you guys go here and figure out if the internet is supplied with the line? I can't quite figure out if it's just the line or if I need to find some ISP to provide me with it.

Ameritech...the first option

thx
Josh

 

[Woodchuck2000]

NAT can be detected by someone examining packets coming from a NAT router. The router must modify the headers of outgoing packets so when a response comes, it knows which local PC to send it to. By looking at all the headers and comparing, it is possible to see if someone's using NAT, though difficult.

Surely the point is that the same amount of bandwith is available and same number of IP addresses used whether one person is using the connection or 5 sharing it.

I guess the link is more likely to be saturated by five people surfing than by 1 person, but it is unfair to charge extra when nothing extra is being provided by the ISP.

 

[JackMDS]

If you did not have regular Telephone until now, you will have to pay Telephone bill for having regular (talkie) Telephone.

If you do have a Telephone line, the only additional payment is $49+Tax every month for the DSL.

The $49 is a payment for delivering the Internet to you over the Telephone line. You DO NOT NEED an ISP in top of it.

 

[flamingsouls]

I'm just cutting and pasting some text from Ameritech's site

If you order the Self-installation kit:


We ship the equipment and software directly to you; equipment will arrive via UPS before the due date. Once you receive the equipment, you'll install the plug-in filters at each phone jack, install the modem and install the software. Once these steps have been completed, you will need to register your Internet service with your Internet Service Provider. Your DSL Internet Service will not be activated until some time on the due date.

So does that mean Ameritech is the Internet Provider and I call them up and register there?

I have also been looking at Charter Cable and it is also available in my area. I haven't gotten a price quote for just the 768 pipeline, but would this be an easier route?


thx
Josh


PS Sorry for my blatant newbieness towards broadband.

 

[acidvoodoo]

<<

PS Sorry for my blatant newbieness towards broadband. >>



no problem, i'm getting broadband next thursday, and i can't help but feel excited. i hate lag, i hate long download times, i hate dialing up lol

as for u're query, why not just ring up the place and ask them if it's unclear?

good luck

 

[speed01]

One quick thing I noticed. The filter is for the phone line you plan on talking on not the one for the modem.

 

[JackMDS]

Cutting, and pasting from Ameritech:

Equipment Install - $200 technician install.

It seems that they offer a very good deal on installation. You might as well take advantage of it.

 

[jhu]

do telcos allow dsl without any phone service?

 

[ProviaFan]

<< do telcos allow dsl without any phone service? >>


You have to have a phone line for your DSL connection, and that line is most likely shared with a regular phone. I suppose it is possible to go without regular phone service, but I have no idea why anyone would want to do so.