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DSL


















What is DSL?
Digital Subscriber Line, a type of Digital Subscriber Line, providing high-speed digital modem technology via a single telephone line. Right now VTel offers two types of DSL. We have ADSL which is an asymmetric service. Generally, you spend more time downloading data than sending it. ADSL responds with asymmetric speed and a data rate that is higher downstream (from the Internet or LANs to you) than upstream. Our ADSL is offered in a 1-Meg application, and an 8-Meg application. The 1-Meg service is offered in almost every area that VTel covers. The 8-Meg service is starting to become available in most of our areas too, but still is not offered in every area that our 1-Meg Service is offered. The other flavor of DSL that VTel offers is SDSL. SDSL is symmetric, meaning that it’s speeds are as fast for uploading as they are for downloading. This is service is more expensive then our ADSL flavors, but can work well for companies that have larger bandwidth needs. SDSL is offered in every area that our 8-Meg service is offered.

What does ISP stand for?
ISP stands for Internet Service Provider.

What is a DSL Modem?
A DSL Modem is not a true modem (which stands for Modulator/DEModulator). It is actually a state-of-the-art all-digital device that communicates using 10BaseT network protocols and provides an "always on" connection to your ISP (Internet Service Provider). What this means is that you will be ready to "surf" the net as soon as you turn on your computer. It does not require an additional phone line, and you can use the Internet while talking on the phone.

Do I still dial the same number for my ISP when I change to VTel DSL Service?
No. In fact, you will not need to dial any number at all! With VTel DSL Service, you will be "permanently" connected to the Internet through your ISP. Once your computer is configured with the information provided to you by your ISP, you will be connected to the Internet as soon as your computer is booted up.

How do I connect my computer to the DSL Modem?
In order to use the VTel DSL Service with your computer you will need to install a 10BaseT network adapter (also known as an Ethernet card). Once you have installed the adapter you will simply connect it to the DSL Modem using a 10BaseT cable (provided with your modem). Your DSL Modem connects to the existing phone jack in your house and you are ready to go!

Will VTel DSL Service make my web access faster?
Yes. Once you have configured your computer to work with the DSL Modem, your Internet connection will provide download speeds of up to 1.3 Mbps and upload speeds of up to 320 Kbps. With VTel's 8-Meg-Modem your Internet connection will provide download speeds of up to 8 Mbps and upload speeds of up to 1 Mbps. Of course, the DSL modem cannot do anything to speed up a slow server, but once the server responds you will notice a significant increase in performance.

My computer does not have a network card. Should I add one to use VTel DSL Service?
Yes. Adding a network card to your computer is a requirement in order to use a DSL modem. Please note that you must install a card that is 10BaseT compatible. There are a wide variety of network cards available on the market today. We strongly suggest that you purchase one that is Windows 95+ compatible for PCs. This will provide ease of installation and configuration to get you started. For Macintosh computers, ensure that the software drivers included are compatible with the operating system you are using. Most late model PowerPC's and iMacs come with a card installed as part of the original hardware packet. Ask your ISP for more information on specific models/brands of network cards.

I have a Macintosh. Can I still use a DSL Modem?
Yes. Any computer that can support the TCP/IP protocol can be used with the DSL Modem. Most late model Macintosh computers (Power PC, including the iMac) have the 10Base-T network connection built in. If you have an older model, which does not have a network connection, you must purchase an appropriate network card and install it in your computer. Most network cards for Apple computers come bundled with the software needed to configure TCP/IP. The documentation that comes with the card should contain the configuration information. Be sure that the card you purchase is for 10BaseT connectivity.

I am currently running MS-DOS 6.20. Can I use a DSL Modem?
Yes and no. Although MS-DOS 6.20 is capable of supporting TCP/IP, today's Internet browsing software is Windows-based only. In order to optimize your Internet sessions, we strongly recommend that you use Windows 95+ for your operating system.

Will I need another line at my house for my telephone with VTel DSL Service?
No. The DSL Modem provides your analog phone service over the same line as your Internet service. Our 1-Meg-Modem also has a phone jack, and line noise filter, built into it that allows a phone, fax, or answering machine to be connected at the modem. Most of our 8-Meg-Modems have this phone jack built in as well. (sometimes an additional noise filter will be required with the 8-Meg-Modem)

My user guide mentions upstream and downstream. What do these terms mean?
The terms upstream and downstream refer to the direction your data is traveling: upstream is from your computer to the Internet, downstream is from the Internet to your computer. The VTel DSL Service provides upstream rates of up to 1Mbps while downstream data travels up to 8Mbps. (Using VTel's ADSL service)

We have 2 PCs at home. Will the DSL Modem handle both computers?
This can be done in several ways. Please call us for more information.

Do I still have to pay for Local Measured Service while using the Internet?
No. With DSL , the connection is an "always-on" connection, you do not get charged LMS (Local Measured Service) while using the Internet. You do however still get charged for any normal telephone calls you make.

If my DSL modem fails or loses power, do I lose phone service?
No. Our DSL Modem is designed so that your normal telephone service will operate even if the modem is unplugged or otherwise disabled.

Can I request a Static IP address for my DSL service?
Currently, we use a dynamic IP allocation as a default. We are also offering optional static IP addresses for an additional charge. Please contact us for more information and rates for static IP's.

Can I connect to AOL?
Yes, America Online offers a special TCP/IP account for customers who already have high-speed Internet access (ISDN, DSL, etc.). This allows you to use your VTel DSL Service to access AOL