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Needless to say, we
all want to get the most of our DSL connection, so we have to start at
the basics. If at all possible, run a dedicated phone line to where you
intend the modem to connect. This way we are assured of a clean line leading
from the TELCO box to your modem.
The line filters sometimes
supplied by your DSL vendor must be installed at each phone connection,
or other devices which utilize the phone line. These devices include answering
machines, fax machines, alarm systems, cable/satellite Pay Per View hook-ups,
TiVO, your analog modem, and so on. One item not filtered could throw
your connection for a loop! Complaints of frequent disconnects and poor
or erratic speeds, just to name a few.
The bottom line is this,
if it connects to your phone line, it's got to be filtered. (but not the
DSL modem)
The best way to go is
installing a DSL POTS (Plain Old
Telephone Service) Splitter. You'll
need to run a dedicated line to your DSL modem.
Connecting where your
TELCO wires enter the home (or in the home) it splits the pair into two
separate lines therefore reducing the need for filters to be placed on
each phone appliance. There's great deals to be found on
eBay. Although you'll have to roll up
your sleeves and get down and dirty, the effort may be well worth it in
a more stable connection with minimal interference from household gadgets
sharing your phone line.
Some other less obvious reasons for
a slow connection may be as simple as upgrading your Network card
drivers. There's plenty of instances documented where the drivers were
either corrupt, or just not working to their full potential and needed
to be reinstalled or updated. Check your manufacturer's website for
the latest drivers. Many times the drivers included with Windows are
sufficient enough to get it working, but the full potential may rest
in your card's specific driver.
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