Connecting to the Internet Using DSL/ADSL
DSL is fast becoming the most common way of connecting to the Internet. There are two common methods used to connect to the Internet using DSL/ADSL/broadband:
1) PC------DSL/cable Modem-------->Internet (via telephone line)
2) PC-------Router----------------->Internet (via telephone line)
Case one is typical for connecting a single computer to the Internet. Usually the ISP provides the DSL modem which you plug into the USB port on the computer and the other end into the
phone line (via a DSL filter).
The DSL filter allows you to use the telephone and broadband simultaneously. It effectively stops the broadband signal interfering with the telephone and vice versa.
The problem with such an arrangement is that you can only connect one computer to the Internet.
Case 2 is typical when connecting a network of computers to the internet. For small /SOHO networks the router also functions as a mini hub/switch allowing you to connect multiple computers.
In
larger networks or when connecting existing networks the hub/switch is usually separate.
So we have the following two typical network configurations:
PCs (1-x)-------Router---------------->Internet (via telephone line)
PCs (1-x)-----HUB------Router-------->Internet (via telephone line)
Where x can be anything but is usually 8 maximum, otherwise additional hubs are required.
Again the router connects to a DSL filter and then the telephone line which connects to the Internet.
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