ADSL General FAQs

1. What is an ADSL?

   ADSL stands for Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line. It is a new communications (modem) technology that transforms ordinary phone lines into high-speed digital lines for ultra-fast Internet access. ADSL also enables access for telecommuters, as well as exciting new interactive multimedia applications such as multiplayer gaming, video on demand, video catalogs and other high bit rate applications. ADSL being asymmetric, the download and upload speeds are different. The download speed is higher than the upload as is required for almost all applications.

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2. How does ADSL work?

   ADSL works on frequency differentiation, the frequency used by voice is different from that used by data, which is why you can use the phone and the Internet at the same time.

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3. How fast is ADSL?

   Very fast! ADSL provides high-speed Internet access for extremely fast downloads. ADSL also ensures data rates required for different applications, such Internet access, video and data transfer. In ADSL, the downstream speed (from the ISP to the user) is higher than the upstream speed, since when using the Internet or other information services there is always more data coming towards the user than there is going up from the user.

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4. What applications are supported to run over DSL?

   ADSL enables interactive video and high-speed Internet access. The strength of ADSL compared to other high-speed transmission alternatives lies in the number of existing telephone line. ADSL Internet Services are a perfect solution for residences, small office/home office (SOHO), and telecommuters wanting higher bandwidth access. ADSL provides a high- speed connection to the Internet and has unlimited opportunities for "information on demand" while facilitating streaming applications that can be used for business, education, and entertainment.

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5. Can I still use my telephone line if I have ADSL?

   Yes! ADSL modems use digital coding techniques to squeeze up to 99% or more capacity out of a phone line without interfering with your regular phone services. That means you could be simultaneously talking on the phone or sending a fax - while surfing the World Wide Web. The two services (voice and data) operate independently of each other even though they are using the same telephone line.

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6. What are the key benefits of ADSL for end users?

   Speed - ADSL provides high-speed digital access.

   Always On - With ADSL, a user is always connected. There is no dial-up required and at any point of time a user can jump onto the Internet. That means no more logging on and off, no more busy signals, and no more waiting for the connection to happen-it`s always there.

   Surf & Talk - You can enjoy the benefit of using the phone at the same time the your Internet connection is on.

   Ease of use - ADSL makes it possible to convert existing telephone lines into high speed carriers, allowing for ultra fast connection speeds and only the installation of the ADSL modem is required. Once the installation is complete, a user simply clicks on the browser and the Internet is connected.

   Reliable - ADSL utilizes the existing telephone network, which is highly reliable and is a proven means of communication.

   Flexible - It does not affect the normal telephone, so you can make and receive telephone calls or faxes while online.

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7. What are typical speeds offered?

   For residential customers we currently offer speeds ranging from 64 Kbps onwards.

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8. Can I use my ADSL connection for other services in addition to browsing the net?

   Sure! ADSL enables various types of services such as Video on Demand, Interactive Online Games, Audio/ Video Streaming and other high-speed services.

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9. What equipment do I need for ADSL?

   All you need is a computer with a Universal Serial Bus (USB) port. (Most new computers have this as a standard feature). We will supply you with an ADSL modem along with a setup CD, which is very convenient to use. If you wish to use other DSL modems on our network, make sure that the DSL modem you buy is Alcatel chipset based.

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10. Which operating systems are supported to use DSL?

    Compatible operating systems are:

    • Windows 98 SE/ ME/ 2000 and XP
    • MAC
    • Linux

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11. How does ADSL compare with competing technologies?

    ADSL provides you with an always on, high-speed, secure connection to the Internet. With ADSL you do not share your bandwidth from the ISP with other users. In contrast, competing technologies share bandwidth on the same cable: your performance with these other technologies can vary greatly, depending on the number of users connected.

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12. How secure is data transmitted via ADSL?

    In this age of electronic commerce, security is becoming a prominent concern amongst Internet users.

    With ADSL technology, using your computer is extremely secure. Your ADSL service is dedicated to your telephone line and none of your private information will pass by any other user`s PC on the network, like other high- speed service offerings.

    With more and more transactions involving credit cards on the Internet, ADSL offers security for both the customer and the business user.

    However, for additional security, using updated Anti-Virus and firewall applications will protect you more.

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13. Will everyone be able to take advantage of ADSL?

    There are a number of factors that will affect whether or not an individual can have ADSL:

    • Your local exchange needs to have been provisioned for ADSL.
    • You should be located a certain distance from the local exchange because ADSL is distance dependent. This distance is typically around 4.5km to 5.0 KM (the copper line from exchange to your location).
    • After the service has been ordered, our technicians will carry out a survey on the PSTN line, to ensure that ADSL can actually be delivered over your phone line.

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14. Is ADSL available in my area?

    Please check the DSL coverage map or call us on 804 444 to check the availability in your area.

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15. Can I use ADSL service from two different ISPs simultaneously?

    No. While you are signed up with another ISP, Qualitynet is unable to provide any of our ADSL services. In order to transfer your service you first need to cancel your account with your existing provider and then place an order with us.

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16. How much will ADSL cost?

    Residential DSL Services Tariffs
    Speed	1 Month	3 Months	6 Months	12 Months
    	Tariff in KDs
    64 Kbps	13	36	66	72
    128 Kbps	17	47	86	128
    256 Kbps	22	61	111	159
    512 Kbps	34	94	171	250
    1024 Kbps	58	160	292	460
    1536 Kbps	90	248	454	700

    
    

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17. What are the requirements to apply for the service?

    For individual/ residential customers, following documents are required:

    • Completely filled and signed Application Form, with all relevant details
    • Copy of applicant's Civil ID
    • Letter of Consent signed by the phone number owner under MoC records, on which the service has to be installed, with a copy of his/ her Civil ID in case the phone number is not on applicant`s name
    • No Objection Certificate from Ministry of Communications (specimen of the letter is below).

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