DSL FAQ

Questions about your DSL connection

Question List

• How should I hook up my DSL Modem?
• Why do I need filters?
• What is a router?
• Can my router cause Internet problems?
• How can I be sure that a problem isn't in my House wires?
• Return to main FAQ list

Answers

• How should I hook up my DSL Modem?
• There are three important connections on your DSL Modem:
  • Phone line, a regular phone cord connecing to the wall jack
  • Network cable, thicker than phone, connects to computer
  • Power, the power cord should be plugged into a surge suppressor
  
  Modem Picture
  
  [Return to List]
• Why do I need filters?
• Filters keep DSL & phone conversations from interfering with each other.
  DSL uses high frequencies outside human hearing.
  However, without filters the DSL signal can cause noise during normal phone calls.
  Likewise, any other devices can interfere with DSL. That includes phones, faxes & anything plugged into the phone line.
  
  Everthing except the DSL should be filtered.
  
  [Return to List]
• What is a router?
• A router is a communications device.
  
  Routers are used to connect networks together. A network is any small groups of computers that are connected to each other.
  
  The Internet is actually composed of lots of separate networks linked by routers.
  
  Using a router at home lets you connect more than one computer to your DSL or other internet connection. A switch would also be required, but many home routers include built-in switches.
  
  [Return to List]
• Can my router cause Internet problems?
• Yes, it can.
  
  When you use a router it stands between your computers & the DSL. All attempts to talk to the Internet must pass through the router
  
  Configuration problems or restrictive filters (firewalls) can prevent you from accessing the internet.
  
  The quickest test involves bypassing the router. Plug a computer directly into the DSL modem. If you get internet then the router was at fault. Consult the router's manual.
  
  [Return to List]
• How can I be sure that a problem isn't in my House wires?
• Testing at the Maximum Point of Entry can rule out house wiring.
  
  The wires coming from the phone company meet the wires in your house at a junction box. All the wires before the box are the phone company's responsibility. The wires after the box are your responsibility.
  
  Newer MPOE boxes make testing very easy. There is a standard phone plug in the box that you can connect to with your DSL modem.
  
  Connecting this way bypasses your internal wiring. Comparing the results at the MPOE junction box with those from inside can be very informative.
  
  [Return to List]