|
|
| Frequently Asked DSL Questions |
- What is DSL?
- What is the difference between ADSL, SDSL, IDSL?
- Are the speeds for DSL guaranteed?
- I have 384Kbps, but my download speeds are measured in K bytes. What speed should I expect?
- Why is DSL not available in my area?
- Why does DSL take so long to get installed?
- Can I connect more than one computer?
- Do you offer protection for my DSL connection?
- Can a change in my phone service disrupt my DSL connection?
1. What is DSL?
DSL stands for Digital Subscriber Line. This technology provides a dedicated digital circuit between a residence and a telephone company's central office, allowing high-speed data transport over existing twisted copper telephone lines.
2. What is the difference between ADSL, SDSL, IDSL?
ADSL (Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line) is a transport that allows faster flow of information downstream than upstream. SDSL (Symmetric Digital Subscriber Line) supports one speed upstream and downstream regardless of information flow. IDSL (ISDN Digital Subscriber Line) is an ISDN technology that rides over existing twisted copper telephone lines to provide DSL service farther than ADSL or SDSL.
3. Are the speeds for DSL guaranteed?
A DSL connection is usually an "Up to" 384k connection or higher. Minimum connection speed cannot always be guaranteed due to customer distance from the serving Central Office. Actual data transfer may be lower due to Internet congestion, server or router speeds, protocol overheads and other factors which cannot be controlled by Red Shift.
4. I have 384Kbps, but my download speeds are measured in K bytes. What speed should I expect?
| DSL Speed |
Download Speed |
| 128 Kbps |
16K bytes per second |
| 192 Kbps |
24K bytes per second |
| 384 Kbps |
48K bytes per second |
| 768 Kbps |
96K bytes per second |
| 1100 Kbps |
137K bytes per second |
| 1500 Kbps |
187K bytes per second |
5. Why is DSL not available in my area?
The central office where you receive your local phone service must be equipped for DSL connectivity. If the central office in your area does not have a DSLAM (Digital Subscriber Line Access Multiplexer) you will not be able to receive DSL service. For information on when your central office will be equipped with a DSLAM, please send an email to mailto:sales@redshift.com
6. Why does DSL take so long to get installed?
Once you submit an order for DSL, several processes take place. An address verification is done to check your distance from the central office. A request is placed with the telco to provision your line for DSL service. The provisioning results will determine whether you qualify for service. If you are within the allotted distance for the type of DSL service you ordered, your line will be tested for stability. If you have a clean line, your order will be processed quickly. If your line is too far for the service ordered, or if there are bridge taps, load coils, DLCs or other obstacles, your order will be delayed. The telco may order additional engineering tests or dispatch a field technician for repair. This will result in another delay. It may also be determined that the line is not going to be suitable for service after extensive testing has been completed.
7. Can I connect more than one computer?
If your computers are already networked, you may purchase additional IP addresses. We will add these IPs to your DSL circuit and this will allow additional computers to surf.
8. Do you offer protection for my DSL connection?
If you're concerned about the security of your DSL connection, you may take advantage of our firewall services. Our firewall will masquerade your IP address so that your internet surfing is anonymous to users outside our network. There is no additional charge for this service.
9. Can a change in my phone service disrupt my DSL connection?
Yes. If you are considering making one of the following changes, please contact our Customer Care department before doing so.
The following are some common causes of disruption of DSL service:
Change in the name on the phone bill.
Change in the local provider from SBC to another company.
Change in the address of the phone number.
Disconnection of telephone service.
Adding an alarm system or a gate to the telephone line that is used for DSL.
|
|
|  |
|
