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One of the biggest problems people face when switching to Linux from Windows and Mac computers is the lack of support from service providers. Using Linux does require that you become slightly more tech savvy than the average computer user, but it no longer requires you to become a full fledged computer nerd. Here’s a tutorial to show you just how easy it is to setup DSL service using Ubuntu on the AT&T network.
Hardware connections
The hardware side of setting up the AT&T DSL modem is the same for Linux systems as it is for those running Windows and Mac OS. Simply connect the phone line, power adapter, and one side of the ethernet cable to your modem. The other end of the ethernet cable connects to your computer. Additionally, you will need to install DSL filters on all other phone lines in your household which are not connected to the DSL modem. This includes phones, fax machines, dial up modems, satellite television receivers, home security systems, and any other device.
Accessing the DSL modem
This is the first place where the Linux installation of an AT&T DSL modem will begin to differ from using Windows or Mac OS. However, this difference is rather minimal. Typically, Windows and Mac OS users will use the installation CD that comes packaged with their DSL modem to setup their service. This CD will not work with Linux and so Linux users must use the alternative setup method through their web browsers. This method can also be done on Windows and Mac OS systems, and it’s the preferred method for technicians that can take advantage of the advanced features offered here. For AT&T customers using the 2Wire DSL modems, the address to connect to the router is 192.168.1.254.
Settings
From the browser you will find a setup wizard that can walk you through this setup process. You can even contact tech support personnel and ask for help with the specific settings for your configuration from this point (if you don’t tell them you’re running Linux, they’ll walk you through the setup without any problem). Additionally, you can configure your firewall and DMZ settings in order to allow advanced security features.
Testing
When you think everything is setup properly, it’s time to test your setup. Begin by surfing to a few website you’ve never been to before. After that, try running a speed test to make sure your are getting the bandwidth you’re paying for. If everything is working, you can stop here or move on to setup your wireless router.
