Q: Does Oplink.net DSL require a land based phone line?
For us to install Oplink.net DSL, you must have an AT&T local phone line. This is necessary because ATT provides Oplink.net the DSL carrier signal to transport your data to our network. The least expensive AT&T local phone service is called "Measured Rate" service. Measured rate service allows receiving unlimited calls, and the placing of 25 calls each month. Place more calls than 25 in a month and the charge is $0.10 each. This service only costs $13/month including all fees and taxes. There are no special features, no caller ID, no voice mail, and no long distance. To order a measured rate phone line, please call AT&T directly at 1-800-464-7928 and ask for it by name: "measured rate phone line with no features". Be wary, AT&T sales reps are commission based and will try to sell everything you don't need.
Q: Does Oplink.net offer Dry Loop DSL or Naked DSL?
No, Sorry AT&T has not given us the option to resell the last mile of dry loops at this time.
Q: What is PPPoE?
PPPoE (Point to Point Protocol over Ethernet) A protocol layer that will cut your bandwidth by at least 10%. It also can cause packet fragmenting which will further erode your QoS (Quality of Service), and makes it difficult to share your Internet connection with more than one computer. Avoid PPPoE at all costs. (Even the name is poorly formed it should have been PPP/E) There is also a rule of thumb evolving; if the ISP uses PPPoE they most likely over-sell their bandwidth. It allows the ISP to time-out your connection, etc., thereby not providing always-on service. Companies that use PPPoE include AT&T/Yahoo DSL, DSL Extreme, and Speakeasy.net. For more on PPPoE see: technical resource about the drawbacks of PPPoE.
Q: Since Oplink.net doesn't use PPPoE what type of connection do you hand off?
We hand off a bridged-over-ethernet connection. In simple terms an ethernet connection to your computer or router. After you connect to the Internet using DHCP or Static IP's.
Q: What is DHCP or dynamic IP address?
A simple way for us to provide your computer or router with an IP address so you can get on the internet. Your IP may change from time to time.
Q: What is a Static IP?
A dedicated and routable Internet address assigned to you before your service activation. Your static IP will never change. This can be good for people who run servers or for businesses with security cameras.
Q: What is Latency?
Latency Is the amount of time it takes a packet to travel from the source (your dsl) to the destination (the website your trying go to). The lower the latency, the better you are for trading stocks and for getting low ping times while playing online games.
Q: What happens after my 12 month term?
Before your 12 month contract is complete, we will email you a renewal offer. If you choose not to accept the renewal offer, prices will go to month-to-month rates.
Current 12 month renewal rates:
Standard DSL 1.5/384 DSL $29.95/month
Advanced DSL 3/512 DSL $39.95/month
Premium DSL 6/768 $44.95/month
Current month-to-month rates:
Standard DSL 1.5/384 DSL $39.95/month
Advanced DSL 3/512 DSL $49.95/month
Premium DSL 6/768 $54.95/month
Q: Can I renew my DSL to 'current 12 month renewal rates' online?
Yes, Click here to renew your DSL 12 month term online.
Q: What brand DSL modems do you use?
Westell Wirespeed Model #B90
Q: If I sign up for the 12 month term, can I move and continue the contract term?
Yes. use our online move request form at least 5 business before you plan to move. DSL is put on a physical AT&T copper based phone line and DSL line share is added to your address and phone number. If you move, the records for both your phone number and address must be updated by AT&T and Oplink.net. We have made the move process easier. If you are moving please fill out this online move request form, we will handle the rest and email you all the details. The entire move process will take about 5-7 days to complete.
Q: If I move out of your service area and have to cancel my contract, what kind of fees or conditions am I subject to, to exit the contract amicably?
If you move out of our service area, you will pay an early termination fee of $99 and to avoid additional charges, you should return all the DSL equipment provided to you.
Q: Can I use more then one DSL modem on the same phone line to connect two computers to the DSL?
No. You must use a broadband router or wireless router to share the Internet or something similar.
Q: What router do you suggest on getting?
We suggest getting a Linksys Wireless Router WRT54G, or a similar model. These can be found at Best Buy, Walmart, Office Max, Office Depot, and the MicroCenter. They cost about $50, slightly more for a more advanced model. You will also need to get a wireless card if you don't plan on running a wire to computers. Any wireless card should do.
Q: Will other DSL modems work with your DSL?
Mostly yes. We don't use PPPOE. We send you a modem when you sign up. But if you use a modem we don't provide, we will not support them if anything disrupts your DSL.
Q: Why do I only get 4 DSL filters?
Generally if you have more then 4 phone line devices, your DSL signal will start to degrade. If you have more then 4 devices, it would be best to have a splitter installed in the phone box on the side of your location by AT&T. Contact us for more info.
Q: Your website says we get free 56k dialup account with our DSL.
The free dial up is for emergencies and customers whose DSL connection is not working. Please call us and we will activate it for you. When your DSL is back up and running, the dialup account will be deactivated. A free dial up for casual use is not provided. You can purchase an unlimited dialup account with us for $10 per month.
Q: Does Oplink.net offer news group access?
No.
Q: I have switched from another provider to Oplink.net. When should I call my recent provider to cancel with them?
Generally, we tell our customers to call their previous provider when our DSL service is up and running and you are satisfied. For customers doing a hotswap to us, if you call your previous provider too early, they might place a disconnect on your DSL and you will be without DSL for a few days.
Q: I'll not be using my DSL connection for a period of time, is there a way to suspend my account?
No. We still pay AT&T for the DSL signal that provides the last mile to your location. We can place a disconnect and reconnect you when you come back. If you break the contract, termination fees apply.
Q: Can I upgrade or downgrade my DSL service while in a contract?
Yes. You will be required to start a new contract at the time of the upgrade/downgrade. You will be eligible for website contract prices, but not new customer website promotions. |
