[NTLUG:Discuss] DSL Question

[Elequin]

Jason Ferguson wrote:
> Okay, here's the info from the SW Bell plans page for the 
> enhanced package:
> 
> Equipment Install: $200
> GSP/SBC Install: $100
> DSL Package: $99 (modem, which I have), $378 (router, which I 
> dont have) Activation Fee: $50
> 
> So, my question was regarding the router... I thought it was 
> on my end. Can anyone help clear my confusion now?

This "modem", from what I understand, is merely an ATM to Ethernet
bridge.  The routing is done on SWBell's side.  The only reason you may
want a router is if you want to do NAT on your side.

For example:  I have SWBell's Enhanced package right now.  I am using a
Speedstream 5260 DSL Bridge as my dsl "modem".  They are sending me 5
Ips out of a block of 8 Ips, and they are using the 6th usable IP out of
that block of 8 on their end, as my gateway.  (For a block of 8 Ips, you
have 6 usable - one is the LAN address, one is the broadcast address,
hence unusable.)  So, say I have .145 through .149 that they're saying I
can use.  .150 is the gateway IP.  Logically, my network is connected
straight to their network via the DSL bridge - it's on the same subnet.
They do the routing on their end.

And the $200 equipment install is basically for them to send a tech out,
put filters on your normal voice telephone lines, hook the DSL modem up
to a phone jack, and maybe configure one Windows PC to connect.  (I
don't know their policy anymore about what they actually do on your
computers.)  When I signed up for it, I told them I did not need this
technician to come out, and for $200 hook up the equipment (which is
very easy to do yourself) and stare at my linux boxes blankly and go
"huh?".  They waived the $200 install for me.  The GSP/SBC Install, I
think, is what they charge to "reserve" the Ips for you.

HTH,

 - Eric