[Ham-Computers] RE: Why is DSL/Wideband more "hackable"?

[Hsu, Aaron (NBC Universal)]

Hi Gary,

Most DSL setups are configured "out-of-the-box" to "connect on demand" via
PPPoE.  This means that they connect to the Internet whenever a computer
requests an internet (aka WAN) connection.  After a certain period of
inactivity (aka "timeout"), the connection drops.  It re-connects again
(often obtaining a new IP address) when there's outbound WAN traffic.  The
DSL connect sequence is fairly quick, typically 5 to 7 seconds, so the delay
isn't too noticeable.  BTW, PPPoE stands for Point-to-Point Protocol over
Ethernet - basically dial-up over Ethernet - funny, eh?

Depending on your setup, the "connection" is handled either by the modem, a
router, or software on your computer.  Somewhere in the configuration
settings is usually a setting to choose "connect on demand" or "always on".
There should also be a setting for the timeout for "connect on demand"
(usually set for 5 minutes).

Even if you choose "always on", your ISP may disconnect you from time to
time - some even charge extra if you're connected 24/7, so check your ISP's
policy on "always on" connections.  A recent article I read shows how an ISP
advertised "unlimited DSL access", but one customer's service was
disconnected after he set his DSL connection to "always on".  Apparently,
the ISP's definition of "unlimited DSL access" means that you can use it
anytime you want, not however long you want.  If you're interested, this ISP
is located in Texas.  I believe the story is in this month's issue of
"Maximum PC".  

73,

  - Aaron, NN6O


-----Original Message-----

When you switch to standby and then back on are you establishing a new route
as you would with dialup when you disconnect/reconnect?

gary  n1msv