What is DSL?

DSL (Digital Subscriber Line) is an "always on" high-speed Internet connection. With DSL, you can access all of the resources of the Internet whenever you choose, without busy signals, or connection/disconnection delays or interruptions. DSL modems use digital coding techniques to employ the additional capacity of your standard telephone line. A complex web page that can take minutes to download using an analog modem will arrive in seconds with a DSL connection. For small businesses, DSL can be a much more cost-effective data service than a slower ISDN or more expensive T1 line. The service is billed on a monthly basis, usually for a fixed price for unlimited usage.

What are the Main benefits of DSL?

• Uninterrupted, high-speed Internet access that is "always on".
• A cost-effective solution for residential customers, telecommuters and small businesses.
• Data security that exceeds other technologies.
• No line sharing to degrade speed.

Is My DSL line private?

Yes. Unlike other technologies, your data transmission through the Ironton DSL service is not shared. Therefore, no one can "listen" to your data transmissions. As is possible with a dial-up modem, your Internet Service Provider (ISP) can monitor your use of the Web.

Do I need a firewall?

No. However, protection against intruders is always desirable with any type of Internet connection. Ironton would recommend a firewall or firewall software when using a broadband connection such as DSL

Can I use my telephone and computer at the same time with the DSL modem?

Yes. Ironton Telephone offers voice and data over the same telephone line. The DSL modem will simultaneously pass voice and data over a single telephone line. It provides a standard 10/100Base-T Ethernet port using an RJ-45 jack for connection to the user's PC. A pass through RJ-11 telephone jack is also provided that will enable subscribers to maintain telephone service in the same room.

My computer does not have a network card. Must I add one to use the DSL modem?

No. The DSL modem can be used with a Network Interface Card (NIC) that is 10/100Base-T compatible, or using the USB port on the back of the modem. For ease of installation and configuration, Ironton highly recommends that the NIC be used and is compatible with Windows® 95 (or higher). For Macintosh® computers, the software drivers must be compatible with the operating system in use because USB will not work with the Macintosh OS.

My new computer contains a DSL modem. Can I use that?

No. Ironton Telephone cannot support any other DSL modem other than the one provided with the Ironton DSL connection.

I have a Macintosh Computer, can I still use the DSL modem?

Yes. Most network cards for Apple computers are bundled with the software needed to configure TCP/IP. The documentation included with the card should contain the configuration information. Be sure that the card you purchase is used for 10/100Base-T connectivity. Please note that USB connection will not work with the Macintosh OS because drivers are not designed for the OS.

The User's Guide mentions "downstream" and "upstream". What do these terms mean?

"Downstream" is the direction your data travels from the Internet to your computer; "upstream" is the direction the data travels from your computer to the Internet. The DSL modem can provide a downstream rate up to 20Mbps and an upstream rate up to 1Mbps.

Can I continue to use AOL with Ironton DSL?

Yes. AOL has a service plan called "Bring your own Access". For about $10 a month, you can use the familiar AOL environment through the Ironton DSL Internet connection. The AOL connection screen will allow you to select another connection profile that assumes existing TCP access (a DSL connection). No attempt is made to use the modem to dial AOL when the profile is changed. Once your DSL service has been installed, you can change your AOL pricing plan to the "Bring your own Access" option if you choose to continue to use your AOL account. You will receive two bills for your Internet service - one from AOL and the other bill from Ironton Telephone Co.

Do I still dial the same number for my ISP when I switch to the DSL modem?

No. In fact, you will not need to dial any number at all! With the DSL modem and Ironton DSL service, you will be "permanently" connected to the Internet through your ISP. Once your computer has been 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.

Can I network more than one computer in my home to Ironton DSL?

Yes, it is possible. Please call PenTeleData’s Computer Patrol at 1-877-610-9090.

What is PPPoE?

Point-to-Point Protocol over Ethernet is a method used to encapsulate your data for transmission through Ironton Telephone Co.'s network. WinPoET™is the PPPoE setup used by Ironton Telephone Company.

How do I prepare my computer to run Ironton DSL?

When you subscribe to Ironton DSL, you will receive a DSL modem that will connect to your Ethernet card and your telephone jack. You will need to load WinPoE™ software, the PPPoE setup used by Ironton Telephone Co. to provide your DSL service.