DSL modems are one of the primary sources of Internet access for your business. Most geographic areas have a companies providing DSL service and companies providing cable service. Most of these companies offer different bandwidth plans. It is up to you to decide whether you want the DSL modem provided by the company, or if you want to look into purchasing higher-end DSL modems for sale by an independent manufacturer.

The following approaches will help you decide which DSL modems types and styles best suit your business needs:

1. Consult with your local broadband ISP to find out which digital subscriber line modems they offer.
2. Know the difference between broadband ADSL modems, wireless DSL modems and others.
3. Browse the vast selection of DSL modems available from online retailers.
   

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find out which ADSL modems or business DSL modems are offered by your local provider

Most local DSL ISPs will provide you with a free DSL modem or wireless DSL modem when you initially sign up for service. The best way to research your options is to visit the ISP homepage.

I recommend: Net Top 20 lists the top 20 DSL providers in the nation. Click on the link for the provider in your area to get an overview of their DSL service and equipment. For instance, you can find more about the DSL options provided by AT&T on their website--such as their wireless DSL modems, which negate the need for a separate wireless router.

Before choosing a business DSL modem, make sure you know the different technologies available.

The main types of DSL modems are ADSL (Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line), RDSL (Rate Adaptive Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line), SDSL (Symmetric Digital Subscriber Line) and IDSL (ISDN Digital Subscriber Line). Not all technologies are compatible with all service providers.

I recommend: EasyStreet Online Services offers excellent basic info on how DSL works, including detailed descriptions of the types of DSL. HowStuffWorks also has a guide on how DSL works, including an subsection on DSL equipment.

Get an idea of what DSL modem equipment is available by browsing online retailers

Once you understand how DSL works, and what DSL modems your ISP is willing to provide to you free of charge, it is up to you to decide whether or not you want to go out on your own and purchase a third-party DSL modem. There are numerous online retailers with an excellent selection of DSL modems.

I recommend: DSLDepot.com is well-stocked with all manner of DSL modems and supplies. You can also find an excellent selection of DSL modems at Amazon. Once you've purchased your modem, learn how to install it with a tutorial at eHow.

In today's computerized world, the need for high speed internet access, such as through a DSL modem, is becoming a requirement for any business, small or large. However, the options for broadband access are varied and a business owner can use anything from dial-up to T-1 services.

The question becomes: What is the appropriate service for your business? For many business owners, business digital subscriber line modems, or DSL, often is the best solution for internet access.

A digital subscriber line modem can offer the following advantages to the business owner:

1. Availability: DSL requires no additional hardware to be installed from your telecommunications provider; however, you need to ensure that DSL is available from your provider. You can use your current phone lines to access DSL service after your DSL provider has verified them.

2. Through-put: Business DSL modems have enough through-put to rival T-1 and T-3 service lines.

3. Supportability: DSL does not require extensive IT staff to install and maintain.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Determine whether DSL modem service is available at your business location

There are many resources available to determine whether DSL is available at your business location. A simple phone call to your telecommunications provider will answer most questions. There are also some web sites that will show what broadband is available in your area.

I recommend: Call your telecommunications provider to inquire about DSL availability at your location. Check out AT&T and Verizon.

Determine which DSL modem fits your needs

There are many 'flavors' of DSL: ADSL modems, SDSL modems, VDSL modems, and so forth. Each of these also come in different speeds. How do you choose the appropriate type of DSL for your business?

I recommend: Look at the DSL business class packages that your telecommunications provider offers. Compare upload and download speeds as well as the possibility for upgrade to a higher class of service. Look at BroadbandInfo.com and DSL Speed.

Determine what hardware equipment will work most effectively with your DSL modem

When you get your DSL service, you will need hardware in order to use it on your business network (i.e., a router). Your requirements will depend on the number of users at your business location as well as the amount of internet traffic. Also take into consideration whether you have wireless access and could use wireless DSL modems.

I recommend: Linksys and NETGEAR both offer excellent business DSL modems and include DSL modems for sale and the necessary services, such as security and wireless.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  DSL modem installation can be a daunting task if you have no computer experience. There are many technical services available. Do not be afraid to hire someone to help!
• •  Security is an important part of your DSL deployment. Make sure to follow any security guidelines and change any passwords from the default on your new equipment.
• •  Install your DSL modem in a secure location. Also, use a surge protector/uninterrupted power supply to ensure continuous operation.

If you want a fast Internet connection, but can't afford a T1 connection, then it's a good idea to purchase DSL from an ISP provider. DSL stands for digital subscriber line and a DSL modem is what you use to connect to the Internet. There are many different types of DSL modems and supplies, which can make it difficult to know what you need. Many Internet service providers will give you a DSL modem for free as part of their service. However, in most cases, you can choose to purchase a third party DSL modem if you feel that you need a better performance. Learn the following terms related to DSL modems in order to make the right choices.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Wireless DSL modem

A wireless DSL modem is just as it sounds, a DSL modem that does not require wires to connect to the Internet. This can be a big convenience when you are working in an office where many computers need to connect to the Internet.

I recommend: See an example of a wireless DSL modem at Actiontec.

ADSL, RADSL, SDSL and IDSL

Asymmetrical digital subscriber line (ADSL), rate adaptive digital subscriber line (RADSL), symmetric digital subscriber line (SDSL) and ISDN digital subscriber line (IDSL) are all different types of DSL connections. With ADSL, your download rate is faster than your upload rate, while with SDSL, the rates are the same. RADSL adapts based on the fastest connection available. IDSL uses IDSL technology for DSL service.

I recommend: Learn about the different types of DSL at Easy Street.

Router

A router allows one DSL modem to provide access to several computers. This is ideal in small office situations. Routers can also provide an extra level of security.

I recommend: Misco provides good information about routers.

Cat 5 or Ethernet cable

The category 5, or cat 5, cable is often referred to as an Ethernet cable. This is the cable that connects your DSL modem to the computer.

I recommend: View samples of Ethernet cables at the Optimized Cable Company.

Upload and download speed

The upload speed refers to how quickly you can upload data from your computer to the Internet, while the download speed refers to how quickly you can download information. Many companies primarily use the download feature and these rates are often faster.

I recommend: BroadbandInfo.com discusses the differences between download and upload speeds.

DSL modem security

All computers are subject to attacks by viruses and malicious software. Using DSL modem security measures, you can reduce the amount of risk to your computer.

I recommend: Terry Giliedt discusses how to improve DSL modem security.