Internet Explorer using DSL

I would like to connect Internet Explorer using DSL---how can I do this? Thanks for your help---Marion McCaleb

 

You need to make arrangements with a dsl provider in your area. If you have already done so, they should walk you through any unusual set up issues.

Johanna

 

Thanks Johanna---I'm thinking about using Qwest's DSL offering but wanted to do some homework first. I'm trying to determine if I need an ISP or if I can simply connect Internet Explorer (and Outlook Express) using my Windows XP Connection Wizard---Marion McCaleb

 

Yes, you have to have an ISP (Internet Service Provider). Even ISPs have to pay one of the "big boys" (Sprint, AlterNet, etc.) for use of their lines and equipment to get net access. So even if you bought the necessary equipment to be your own ISP (which will cost tens of thousands of dollars), you'd still have to pay for access at some point.

 

marionmccaleb--You might want to do a little shopping for an ISP. Qwest may not be the cheapest. (Have you determined that DSL is in fact available at all in your area? Do any of your neighbors have it? You have be to no more than 3-5 miles from the phone company's "Central Office" and above 3 miles the speed slows down.)
Other ISP's can perhaps be determined here
http://www.thelist.com/
http://www.freedomlist.com/

 

Thanks Jim---I'll look into the various points you raised. I gave my phone number to Qwest and they claim they provide DSL service to my area at a monthly cost of $26.99 for a 265K connection. I'll ask some more questions before I make a decision---Marion McCaleb

 

I'd like to clarify my note to Johanna below---what I was really trying to find out was, having established a DSL service, can I then use IE/OE as my browser and mail system (and if so, how to make the proper connections). My confusion was with the term ISP--I wasn't sure if the DLS service (providing net access) also required a system such as AOL for example to be used with DSL---thanks, Marion McCaleb
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Thanks Johanna---I'm thinking about using Qwest's DSL offering but wanted to do some homework first. I'm trying to determine if I need an ISP or if I can simply connect Internet Explorer (and Outlook Express) using my Windows XP Connection Wizard---Marion McCaleb

 

Hi Marion,

Quest DSL would be the ISP, Internet Service Provider, and yes, you can just use the ICW to set up a new connection.

 

Thanks for the fast reposne Dave---really appreciate it---Marion McCaleb

 

Quite welcome. Generally, the ISP will come out and hook everything up, unless you have your own equipment and all you need is the service. If going the latter route, they are usually very helpful getting you set up via telephone, should you have problems.

 

marionmccaleb--If you are a cable TV customer, you might also check their cost--again assuming cable is available to you. I am sure the speed will be much faster (like 8-10X) than DSL and cable often gives you a break on the monthly fee if you also take their TV cable service--though I doubt it will be as low as $27/month for the internet connection. Cable, especially if you buy through a local store, will often give you a free modem (after rebates). Perhaps the DSL company will do the same. Might save a few bucks per month for renting the modem.
Not sure I would recommend you buy through a site like this
http://dsl-providers.nettop20.com/
but it might help you check availability and prices.
Good luck.

 

My telephone service, cable TV and cable internet comes from the same company, and they give me a price break for the "bundled" package. My internet runs $25 a month, which is less expensive than the basic telephone service fees. I did have to buy the modem, though. Unlimited dial up costs about the same, but it is slloooooowww and ties up the phone line.

"Shopping around" is not an option in my rural area. There are simply no other alternatives. However, I would avoid AOL like the plague, no matter where I lived. Do a search on the BBS for AOL comments.

Johanna

 

MM - Here is a site you might check out. You can enter your address and phone number and get a reading (hopefully) as to whether DSL is available to you. Don't go to the bank on their response though. I'm getting ready to move to a new address and DSLReports and my new location says DSL is available but Verizon who is the provider says they aren't sure. I will have to wait til I move to find out for sure.

http://www.dslreports.com/prequal

 

Thanks so much Dave, Jim, Johanna, and Robert for your helpful suggestions---I'll look at each one carefully before I make my final decisiion for high speed service---best wishes, Marion McCaleb