DSL for Dummies

This book provides good information if you are shopping for DSL service. Part I talks about the DSL service itself. I finally understood the different types of companies that are involved: you'll have a phone line provided by the telephone company, a DSL provider supplies DSL service over the phone line, and the DSL service connects you to an Internet service provider. This part also talks about things to consider when comparing DSL offerings. Part II talks about connecting your DSL service to your computer or network. It covers TCP/IP, DSL customer equipment (DSL modems and routers), security (make sure you get a firewall of some kind), and sharing your DSL connection among several computers. Part III provides detailed instructions on setting up your computer or network. There are chapters on connecting Windows 95/98, Windows NT, Windows 2000, and Macintosh. Hopefully you won't need this information-your DSL provider should supply specific instructions. Part IV describes how you can take advantage of your new high-speed, always-on connection. This is the weakest part of the book. It gives an overview of applications you can now take advantage of, but without the detail that makes the earlier parts of the book so valuable. It does provide a nice discussion of virtual private networks. The two chapters in the "Part of Tens" (the traditional ending for a Dummies book) seemed redundant. In summary, this is an excellent book for prospective DSL customers that clearly explains how DSL works and how to set it up.

I purchased the prior edition since I am actively considering installing DSL now for my home business. This book is a must read for anyone who is thinking installing DSL in their home/office. Well written and easily understood, the author makes this difficult subject easy to understand and makes the subject totally comprehensible. It is a tremendous help to me in researching who, what, when, why, and how I will install DSL.

This book has all the basics needed for the average consumer. I am a sales rep for DSL services for a major ISP and bought this to have on hand for some of the harder questions that we get! I highly recommend it for anyone considering purchasing any type of DSL service! It is very straight forward and easy to understand! It helps to explain the different types of technologies, the difference between the phone companies and third party vendors, etc. Definitely worth the investment!

With the number of "dummies" books on the market you never know how they are going to be. This one explains DSL, and how it works in excellent detail, but at a level that the beginner should understand. This dummies book is for everyone, not just dummies.

Mr. Angell's "DSL for Dummies" is an informative book on what DSL is, what one can do with DSL, and how does one purchase DSL. There are lists of service and equipment providers, applications of DSL, a section on IP networking and security, and advice on the benefits of different providers. As an added bonus, there is a convenient crib-sheet containing information on provider URLs, DSL flavors, a DSL shopping checklist, and a list of questions to ask when inquiring about DSL service. If you are looking to purchase DSL service or are just interested in learning more about the technology and uses of DSL, then "DSL for Dummies" by David Angell is for you. This book is thorough and informative without being overbearing. The information is organized in a way that allows for easy reference while purchasing or using DSL service. This book will allow the reader to sort out and choose providers and services, and help make the most of DSL. This book is a necessary companion in one's quest for DSL services, an inexpensive high-speed data access solution.