With all of the uncertainty surrounding new technologies such as DSL, we realize it can sometimes be difficult to determine if the product is right for you. We have tried to answer some of the more common questions below. If you are still unsure after reading the information, please Contact Us, and we'll be happy to answer any questions for you. What exactly is DSL? [top] DSL, which stands for Digital Subscriber line, is a broadband communications technology designed for use on Plain Old Telephone Service (POTS) lines. DSL service is capable of transmitting data over copper lines at much greater speeds than conventional analog modems.
Is DSL a form of dedicated Internet access? [top] Yes, DSL runs on a closed, dedicated circuit thus allowing end-users to receive a secure, "always on" connection. You will no longer contend with dialing, busy signals or frequent disconnections.
Will I always maintain the speeds promised to me on my DSL connection?[top] In general, YES. However, access speeds may be inhibited by a client’s own internal network (due to the number of end-users and specific LAN configurations). Another factor that may affect your speed is multitude of networks and servers that make up the Internet.
Why can’t DSL provide the same speeds everywhere? [top] DSL is a distance-sensitive technology, which means the signal diminishes as the distance increases.
Is DSL Internet access better than dial-up Internet access? [top] With its faster speed and "always on" technology, DSL is ideal for "heavy" Internet users. DSL is also more suitable if your business or household has more than one computer in need of simultaneous access. Another benefit to business users is that there are no per-minute usage charges as with dial-up access.
Is DSL better than Cable Modem? [top] The two main advantages to DSL are speed and security. Your DSL speed is unaffected by others, whereas cable speed depends on the amount of end-users and data volume on the shared cable network at a given time. Since DSL is on a closed circuit, it is less susceptible to hackers than a cable modem, which is on a shared network.
What are my options if DSL service is not available in my area? [top] DSL is already available in many markets throughout the northeast region–and the number is growing every day. SAMnet will add your name to a list and will notify you when the service is available. Just fill out our DSL Request Form.
Will I need separate IP addresses for all end-users on my LAN connection? [top] SAMnet may assign one static IP address to each DSL account. All LAN configurations should employ firewall security using Network Address Translation (NAT) on their router, proxy server, or Internet appliance. If you do possess NAT, only one static IP address (placed on the outside interface of the NAT device) is needed for all potential end users.
Can I attain/maintain my domain name? [top] Yes. SAMnet can either register the name for you, or if you already have it, we can switch it to our servers. Click here to find out more about our HOSTING PACKAGES.
What must I absolutely have in order to get connectivity (hub, router,PC)? [top] In general, you will need one external DSL modem and a Network Identification Card (NIC) for each component of your network that has access to the DSL service. Upon ordering DSL, a SAMnet representative will evaluate your needs and make recommendations. You can view various equipment options HERE.
What are the fees? [top] There is a one-time install charge and a monthly recurring charge that will vary according to your access speed and any optional services such as (extra e-mail accounts, domain hosting, etc). General pricing info can be found here: BUSINESS PRICING STRUCTURE RESIDENTIAL PRICING STRUCTURE
What makes up the install charges? [top] The INSTALL charges will vary depending on different promotions that may be running. In general the Install Fee is $140 for Residential accounts and $190 for Business accounts. For the Residential customer, $100 covers bringing the DSL line to the DEMARC point (the point that your phone lines attach to your house) and $40 is to bring the line into the house, on the other side of the DEMARC. For the Business customer, $100 covers bringing the DSL line to the DEMARC point (which is generally inside the building), and $90 covers extending the jack for up to 200 feet within the building. Please note that this assumes easy access... your building configuration may require additional fees. Click HERE for more information on DEMARCATION Points.
Is it necessary to have a firewall and/or proxy server for security? [top] Regardless of what type of Internet access a client has (Dial-Up, DSL, Cable Modem, T 1), a breach of security on a customer network is always possible, and should always be a concern. DSL, however, is less susceptible than Cable Modem because it is not on a shared network. SAMnet strongly advises firewall security measures, particularly for business customers.
Is DSL available in my area? [top] DSL is available in many towns, although some restrictions may still apply. Please fill out our DSL Info Request Form and we will get back to you with an answer about your eligibility.
What if I can't get DSL in my area? [top] SAMnet has other high-speed products available such as Frame Relay and point-to-point T-1 connections.
How do I qualify for DSL? [top] As long as your home or office is in an area that is equipped for DSL, and you are within the distance required from the equipment, you can get DSL. After you fill out the DSL Request Form, we can determine whether you will qualify and recommend a service plan that's right for you.
What equipment do I need? [top] The equipment can vary depending on your specific application. You can view various equipment options HERE.
What speeds are available? [top] DSL speeds range from 128 Kbps to 1024 Kbps. The actual speed will depend on the distance from your home or office to the DSL equipment. In general, you need to be less than 18,000 feet to qualify for DSL, and you need to be less than 10,000 feet to qualify for speeds above 384k. When ordering, you will tell us what speed you want to have (Desired Speed), and what is the lowest speed you will accept (Minimum Acceptable Speed).
During the installation of the line, technicians will attempt to set the speed at the highest number between your Minimum Acceptable Speed and your Desired Speed. If the line cannot handle at least your minimum acceptable speed, the line will not be installed. The various speed options and prices are shown on our pricing pages. BUSINESS PRICING STRUCTURE RESIDENTIAL PRICING STRUCTURE
Is DSL reliable? [top] While DSL is generally reliable, we do not recommend it for "mission critical" applications, at least not without a backup service such as Dial Up. For more critical applications, we recommend Frame Relay or point-to-point circuits. The repair time from the phone company for a DSL line could take days as opposed to a Frame Relay connection which can take only a couple hours.
Can I connect more than one computer to a DSL line? [top] Yes, with the correct equipment. You can view various equipment options HERE. This is also something our Networking team can discuss with you.
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