WHAT IS DSL?
DSL is a technology that provides high-bandwidth (high-speed) network connections to individual homes and businesses. DSL uses the same line as your regular telephone service, but it offers the higher data speeds because of the digital modems, rather than the “56K” analog modems.
How does DSL work?
The heart of DSL technology is in the modem, the telephone line itself is actually the same telephone wire you’ve always had. From the user’s point of view, the DSL modem that is part of your service talks to another DSL modem located at the service provider’s location; in essence, the modems send data back and forth, but the telephone line itself hasn’t changed. The digital modem technology “converts” your line to use the additional data capacity giving you the ability to talk and surf at the same time.
Service Benefits of DSL
DSL is “on” all the time—you don’t have to dial up each time you go online, so there’s no waiting or busy signals. You should be aware, however, that an always-on connection does have security issues. It’s a good idea for DSL users to install personal firewall products on their home networks to guard against external attacks.
DSL offers much higher speeds than the dial-up connections. With DSL, you can download pictures and graphics almost instantly. Exact speeds depend on the customer’s location and the content of pages you are trying to download. While we provide all DSL customers up to the requested amount of bandwidth our network allows, we note that actual transmission speeds vary from time to time.
DSL offers the ability to “talk and surf”. You no longer need a second line dedicated for internet—you have the ability to carry a telephone conversation at the same time you are surfing the web or checking your e-mail.
Some things to remember
DSL’s high-speed data transmission may cause noise on your telephone line. You will need a filter on all telephones to prevent noise that may come through the wire and interfere with your voice calls. We will provide five (5) filters with your service and you may purchase additional filters depending on the number of phones in your home. This includes any phones in any outbuildings, alarm systems and satellite receiver systems.
DSL service requires a special modem to connect with the internet that you lease from HCI for $2 a month.
**Installation fees will apply. DSL service is not available in all areas**
To order Internet service, please submit our Service Request Form or contact a representative at 620-654-3381.