This week you get the benefit of saving time from my wasting it. Recently, my grandparents switched from dial-up to DSL. My DSL service was a piece of cake to set up, so I figured theirs shouldn’t be a problem. Was I wrong.

Filters, Filters, Filters

Besides the modem, the most important items you’ll need when you install DSL are filters. The filters block out the noise on the line that DSL signals cause. EVERY outlet in your house that is connected to a phone device (cordless phone, fax, dial-up modem, etc.) must be connected to a filter. The only hardware that should not have a filter running to it is the modem.

When ordering DSL make sure you ask how many filters you are getting with the setup kit. Some providers will give you two, others will give you five. If you aren’t getting enough, order more. Providers differ here, too. Some will give you as many filters as you need, while others charge a fee.

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