What You Need for AT&T DSL

In order to receive DSL service through AT&T;, customers must have a computer with an available Ethernet port, which look similar to telephone jacks, but are larger and wider. AT&T; does not require customers to have phone service in order to receive DSL service, but must have a working telephone jack. Additionally, customers need a DSL modem, which will connect the computer to the DSL line. Customers can purchase a modem directly through AT&T; and are billed a one-time fee on their monthly bill.

AT&T; recommends all computers have at least 1 GB of memory in order to receive the fastest speeds, but the minimum requirements vary based upon what operating system is installed. Computers installed with Windows XP require 128 MB of memory, Windows Vista requires 512 MB and Windows 7 requires a minimum of 1 GB. Macs with OS 10.3 and above require a minimum of 128 MB of memory.

In addition to the minimum memory requirements, AT&T; outlines free disk space and processor speed requirements. Computers with Windows XP and Mac OS 10.3 and above require 100 MB of free disk space. Windows Vista and Windows 7 require 125 MB of free disk space. As for required processor speeds, Mac OS 10.3 and above requires a Power Mac or faster, Windows XP requires 300 MHz, Windows Vista requires 800 MHz and Windows 7 requires 1 GHz or faster.

AT&T; offers an optional customer self-installation kit at no extra charge so that customers are not billed for the standard installation fee and can take care of the DSL set-up at their own leisure. This kit includes a CD that walks customers through the entire process, step by step. AT&T; also recommends customers purchase the AT&T; Wireless Gateway, which allows multiple computers within the household to securely connect to the Internet.