ADSL Newbie

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Aharon

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Hi,

I am totally new to the concept of ADSL, but am interested based on the new uncapped accounts.

Please could you explain to me the basics of what is needed to get ADSL.

I see modems and routers - do you need either or both? Or are they the same.

If I choose a telkom "self-installation" what will be required to be done?

Please let me have as much info as possible.

Thanks
Aharon
 
Well, for starters you would need a post-paid Telkom line, pricing is currently R131 per month. Then you would require the Telkom ADSL service on the line, 384K is currently R152 per month (they do have faster speeds available but 384K is the entry level option). You can have a look here at the forum for an ISP or you can PM me for info about our uncapped offerings.

If you are only going to connect 1 computer to the internet, then a ADSL modem would be fine. However, if you are going to connect more than 1 computer to the internet, then a ADSL router would be a better option. The only differance is that a modem only has 1 ethornet port whereas a ADSL router has more than one ethornet port (usualy about 4 ports) which can then connect up to 4 computers to the internet without a network switch / hub.

Self-installation: This is when Telkom only install the ADSL line and you configure your own modem / router. Telkom do have a call-centre to assist you with this and your ISP would also assist you to configure it.
 
Hi, thanks for the response.

So, I have one desktop, so a basic modem would suffice? Also do different modems have different max speeds?

What is the going price of a modem I would need? Lastly what is Telkom's fees on 512kb or 4mbs lines?

Thx again
 
Aharon said:
Hi, thanks for the response.

So, I have one desktop, so a basic modem would suffice? Also do different modems have different max speeds?

What is the going price of a modem I would need? Lastly what is Telkom's fees on 512kb or 4mbs lines?

Thx again
Click to expand...

Yes, a basic modem would be fine. When buying a modem make sure that it support ADSL2, just to be safe when Telkom upgrades the ADSL etwork in the future. Cost of a decent modem is between R300 and R500. If you order a ADSL account through us (TRL Technologies), I can give you a good deal on a modem.

As for the Telkom prices, visit www.telkom.co.za to see the latest prices.
 
If you haven't felt the need yet to look into ADSL for home yet, I assume you've been running on dial up?
If so, 384K will blow your hair back sufficiently, without spending more than double the money every month, you can always upgrade to a higher speed later, as you feel the need!

I'd go for the ADSL router even if you only have one pc, just be sure it has a modem built in, the manufacturers have an annoying habit of calling a device an ADSL router, and then making them both with and without actual modems built in. - Been there, bought the wrong thing :(
 
Last edited:
Savage152 said:
I'd go for the ADSL router even if you only have one pc, just be sure it has a modem built in, the manufacturers have an annoying habit of calling a device an ADSL router, and then making them both with and without actual modems built in. - Been there, bought the wrong thing :(
Click to expand...

+1 A lot of people not in the know make this mistake. Make sure it says ADSL Router/Gateway and has a RJ-11 jack for the phone line.
 
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