CrunchBang Linux

plantperson

Member

Registered: 2012-05-15

Posts: 49

AT&T DSL modems

Hi all,
I'm going to be setting up a new AT&T DSL connection soon, and I'd like to get a modem (that is, a DSL-modem/wireless-router) other than their proprietary one, hopefully one of higher quality and lower price. However, the last time I tried to use a non-standard modem I was never able to get it to work. Does anyone know of a modem that works well with AT&T, or have any tips about how to set up a non-standard modem to work properly?

gutterslob

#! Resident Bum

Registered: 2009-11-03

Posts: 2,645

Re: AT&T DSL modems

Shouldn't be a problem. Just make sure you get all the relevant info from your ISP, like username, password. I haven't used ADSL in a long while, but I assume you'll need some additional info like country-specific VCI and whatnot. All info should be provided by AT&T, I would assume.

Try to go for a decent, reputable brand. My routers are often D-Link or Belkin, so I assume their ADSL+Router models are just as good. Standard firmware should be fine, so read the manual, but don't bother with any installation disks. Look for the IP required to access the medom/router settings. Then plug your line into the unit, connect unit to computer with LAN cable (since you haven't set up wireless yet) and turn it on. There should be some sort of DSL light. Some models use a red, green type LED to inform you of connection stability, while others have a blink/non-blink format, so check the manual. Once you've ensured you have a stable DSL connection, turn on your computer (#! should have auto DHCP, so you're fine), launch a browser and enter the unit's IP into the address bar. Then you should be shown a config screen, which usually asks for an admin username and password found in the manual. From there, key in your connection details (some brands have a "Connection Wizard" which you can use), set up your wireless network (WPA2 encryption recommended) if desired, activate the "connect automatically" option and remember to change the units admin and password. You can even do slightly more advanced stuff like change DNS (OpenDNS or Google DNS, for example) or set up port forwarding (for P2P) and even firewall settings, depending on model/brand, if you desire.

That should be it.

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Point & Squirt

p120d16y

#! Die Hard

From: Midwest

Registered: 2011-08-08

Posts: 800

Re: AT&T DSL modems

Well, just don't buy the cheapest router you can find. You want to at least get N, if you find one for $20-25 it will most likely be old G band technology you don't want.
Buy a new Netgear router I would say, but flash the firmware as soon as you get it to newest version. Last version of Netgear firmware had an exploit where you didn't even need an admin password to log into it. Linksys is the next home brand I would recommend.

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All tyranny needs to gain a foothold is for people of good conscience to remain silent.
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