Welcome to Ulink Internet Services

DSL Basic FAQ's

What is DSL?
What are the benefits of DSL?
Why is Ulink Business DSL better?
What speeds does Ulink offer?
What is meant by upstream and downstream?
Why am I limited to certain speeds when your site lists more speeds?
Is DSL right for my business?
Is DSL reliable?
What is the Ulink Service Level Agreement?
Is DSL secure?
Can Ulink Business DSL be shared among multiple users?
Do I need to upgrade my computer to use DSL?
Does DSL require special equipment?
Who installs this equipment?
Does my wiring need to change to support DSL service?
Does DSL affect the quality of my phone service?
Can I buy my own equipment and install it myself?
Will the telephone company charge me extra for receiving DSL from Ulink?
What if I want to upgrade my DSL connection to a faster speed?
What happens to my Ulink Business DSL service if I move?

Ulink Business DSL vs. other technologies

Is Ulink Business DSL better than 56 Kbps analog modems?
How does Ulink Business DSL compare to DSL from the telephone company?
How does Ulink Business DSL compare to cable modems?
How does Ulink Business DSL compare to ISDN?
How does Ulink Business DSL compare to a Satellite Internet Service?

CPE FAQ's

What is CPE?
How do I get my DSL router?
What is inside wiring?
What is a NIC card?
What if the CPE stops functioning?
Will my ISDN equipment work with Ulink Business DSL?
What are the computer requirements to support DSL?

Ulink Business DSL FAQ's

What is the difference between a Web host and a domain name host?
Does Ulink offer Web hosting?
What type of backbone equipment does Ulink use to provide DSL service?
Does Ulink Business DSL work with both Windows and Macintosh?
Can DSL be relied on to host a Web server or e-mail server?
How many e-mail accounts do I get with Ulink Business DSL?
How many static IP addresses do I get with my Ulink Business DSL account?
What are my payment options?
What are the technical assistance hours?

Basic FAQ's

What is DSL?

DSL stands for Digital Subscriber Line. DSL is a high-speed Internet access product for businesses that utilize existing copper telephone lines to deliver fast Internet access at affordable prices.

What are the benefits of DSL?

Fast Access - DSL allows you to access the Internet up to 35 times faster than a 28.8 Kbps dial-up modem. This means Web pages will appear much faster, especially those with large graphics. Your e-mail will arrive and be sent much quicker, and advanced business applications are possible, such as Web hosting and e-commerce.
Always On - DSL is a dedicated service, meaning it is always on. No more busy signals, and no more waiting for your modem to connect to the Internet. A single click of the mouse and you're on-line.
Inexpensive - DSL offers high-speed Internet access at a fraction of the cost of other dedicated services, such as a T-1 line. T-1 lines can cost over $1,000 per month, while DSL is priced up to 70% less so that small and medium sized businesses can now afford high-speed dedicated access.

Why is Ulink Business DSL better?

Ulink provides business class DSL solutions that are tailor made for your business. Our DSL comes with a service level agreement that guarantees network uptime and our network is monitored 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by our highly trained NOC (Network Operations Center) professionals. Most Telephone companies cannot provide the business solutions or support that Ulink does.

What speeds does Ulink offer?

The following details Ulink service offerings. Ulink offers symmetrical speeds because business applications require both high upstream and downstream speeds. Local telephone companies generally offer asymmetrical speeds, which are not appropriate for business use.

Ulink Business DSL Speeds
Solution	Speed/Upstream	Speed/Downstream
SDSL	2.3 Mbps	2.3 Mbps
SDSL	1.5 Mbps	1.5 Mbps
SDSL	1.1 Mbps	1.1 Mbps
SDSL	768 Kbps	768 Kbps
SDSL	384 Kbps	384 Kbps
SDSL	192 Kbps	192 Kbps
IDSL	128 Kbps	128 Kbps

What is meant by upstream and downstream?

Upstream refers to the direction of information heading from your computer out to the Internet. When a user sends e-mail or hosts a Web server, you are sending information upstream. If you plan to send large e-mail attachments, a high upstream speed is critical.

Downstream refers to the direction of information loaded from the Internet onto a user's computer. Examples of downstream loading are viewing Web pages and e-mail messages.

Why am I limited to certain speeds when your site lists more speeds?

The distance between your local telephone company's central office and your business determines the speeds available to a business. Because DSL is highly dependent on distance, some locations may not be able to get the fastest possible connection.

Is DSL right for my business?

Your business will benefit from DSL if you:

Use the Internet to perform competitive research online, make electronic purchases, download software, use e-mail, or want to begin using the Internet as a business tool
Use multiple dial-up Internet accounts from the same location
Send or receive e-mail with large attachments
Do (or want to do) video conferencing or video streaming
Host (or want to host) a Web server and begin selling products or services online
Have an expensive T-1 or other dedicated service and would like to save money but not lose speed

Is DSL reliable?

Yes. DSL is a proven technology that has been in use by the core telephone network for over a decade. At Ulink we stand behind our DSL service by offering a Service Level Agreement (SLA) that guarantees a specified level of high performance.

What is the Ulink Service Level Agreement?

Ulink understands that network performance is extremely important to business customers, that speed is paramount, and that interrupted access to the Internet and e-mail means lost revenue. That's why we are committed to honoring Service Level Agreements guaranteeing that our users' connections perform optimally. Unfortunately, some local telephone companies do not offer Service Level Agreements on their ADSL services. Furthermore, they tend to overload their networks with too many subscribers, causing network congestion and slower performance speeds.

Is DSL Secure?

Because proprietary systems and information need to be safeguarded, network security presents another top priority for business customers. To answer this need Ulink offers you a routing solution, which includes firewall software. This adds security to your uninterrupted connection by building a barrier between your network and computer hackers. As well, the Ulink network ensures your data is safe because it travels over our proprietary network. Alternatively, telephone companies usually include simple bridges with their ADSL services. Bridges generally do not have firewall capability, and therefore do not provide acceptable levels of security for business customers.

Can Ulink Business DSL be shared among multiple users?

Yes, because Ulink uses a DSL router you can connect several computers to one DSL connection. This is perfect for businesses - now every worker can be online at the same time.

Do I need to upgrade my computer to use DSL?

Your PC must have a network interface card (NIC, or Ethernet card). Most new PC's already come with a NIC, but if you do not have a NIC you need to purchase one. A NIC is available at most computer electronics stores. The NIC provides a jack on the back of the computer to which your new DSL router will connect.

Does DSL require special equipment?

Yes - DSL requires a special router, which Ulink provides. The Ulink installer will bring your DSL router when he/she performs the installation.

Who installs the DSL equipment?

A Ulink authorized installer will install the inside wiring and your DSL router. The installer will complete standard inside wiring and connect the DSL equipment to your PC (assuming you have a NIC installed), making certain that the connection is functioning properly.

Does my wiring need to change to support DSL service?

Yes, a new line will be installed at your location to support your DSL service. Ulink will install this wiring during your DSL service installation.

Does DSL affect the quality of my phone service?

No - your phone and DSL service are on completely separate lines, so you can make calls or send faxes while on the Web.

Can I buy my own equipment and install it myself?

At this time, we require you to use our own equipment. However, this may change in the future.

Will the telephone company charge me extra for receiving DSL from Ulink?

No. All fees associated with your new DSL service will come from Ulink. With Ulink you have one source for all your high-speed access needs. We do it all - the wiring, DSL service, Internet access, and one simple monthly bill.

What if I want to upgrade my DSL connection to a faster speed?

Normally, you will be able to upgrade to a higher speed service without needing to upgrade your equipment. For example, the equipment used for 192 Kbps SDSL is the same equipment used for 1.1 Mbps SDSL. However, typically IDSL and SDSL equipment are not cross-functional (an IDSL router would not work on an SDSL line). As well, with Ulink there are no extra charges to upgrade your DSL speed.

What happens to my Ulink Business DSL service if I move?

If you move to an area where Ulink service is available, we will work with you to transfer your DSL service to your new location. If inside wiring is needed there will be additional charges.
Note - Moving is considered as a new installation, not a reinstallation. You must go through the installation procedure again

Ulink Business DSL vs. Other Technologies

Is Ulink Business DSL better than 56 Kbps analog modems?

Ulink Business DSL is significantly faster than a 56 Kbps modem. With Ulink Business DSL Web pages load quicker and e-mail moves faster. In addition, Ulink Business DSL is always on so there is no need to dial-up to connect to the Internet. With DSL, there are no more busy signals, and no dropped connections. Furthermore, the connection is dedicated which means a user can host a Web or e-mail server, which is not feasible with a dial-up connection. Ulink Business DSL also makes it easy to connect multiple computers to one high-speed line in order to share the speed on that line among an entire office.

How does Ulink Business DSL compare to DSL from the telephone company?

Standard telephone company ADSL is not suited for business needs. Most telephone companies offer 256 Kbps (upstream and downstream) ADSL access for about $40 per month. However, the service is not always on, and users may experience busy signals when trying to connect to e-mail or the Internet. Furthermore, user sessions are usually terminated after two hours of continuous use.

Other drawbacks to Telephone Company ADSL generally include:

No service level agreements.
No Router option that means your DSL line can only connect to one computer.
Service is not dedicated and upstream speed is too slow; therefore Web hosting or e-mail hosting are not options.
Insufficient speed for video streaming, video conferencing, or sending large e-mails.

With Ulink Business DSL the connection is dedicated which means a user can host a Web or e-mail server, which is generally not feasible with the telephone company ADSL. Ulink Business DSL also makes it easy to connect multiple computers to one high-speed line in order to share the speed on that line among an entire office.

How does Ulink Business DSL compare to cable modems?

Although cable can be appealing because of its price, customers who are tempted to use cable modems should bear in mind that these services are not suitable for business use. A cable network is shared, so an increase in the number of simultaneous users decreases the speed of individuals' lines. At times of peak Internet usage, cable modem speeds often decrease dramatically. Also, the upstream speed on a cable modem is generally no higher than 128 Kbps. This is significantly less than the 1.1 Mbps maximum enabled by SDSL. Finally, a shared network is inherently less secure than a dedicated service like DSL. Neighboring cable customers can more easily intercept data or hack into another individual's computer.

How does Ulink Business DSL compare to ISDN?

Ulink Business DSL outperforms ISDN for the following reasons:

ISDN is only available in 128 Kbps, which is significantly slower than most DSL connections.
ISDN doesn't offer dedicated, uninterrupted access.
ISDN is subject to additional per-minute fees in many locations. ISDN fees can easily range into the hundreds of dollars on a monthly basis.
Internet service providers often charge $30-$150 a month to provide Internet access to ISDN customers.
DSL was developed from ISDN technology - DSL is a superior product that costs you less.

How does Ulink Business DSL compare to a Satellite Internet Service?

Internet access delivered via a satellite system is a recent addition to the list of high-speed access choices. DSL is a better choice for three reasons. First, DSL is easier to install. Satellite service is often difficult to set up, sometimes requiring multiple visits by the installation technician. Satellite service that works fine in the winter may not work at all in the summer when the trees add foliage. Also, as landscapes change new structures can block the signals. DSL provides for two-way data transfer using the same advanced technology. Satellite service only provides for fast downloads. Uploads to your ISP require an additional means of signaling like a dial-up modem. Finally, DSL is less expensive than Satellite Internet Service.

CPE FAQ's

What is CPE?

CPE stands for Customer Premise Equipment - It's our term for the DSL router you will use to connect your computer to the Ulink Business DSL line.

How do I get my DSL router?

A Ulink authorized installer will bring your router when he/she comes to install your DSL service.

What is inside wiring?

The wiring that is installed in your business during your DSL installation.

What is a NIC card?

NIC stands for Network Interface Card. It is a necessary piece of equipment for your DSL service. The NIC in your computer is what the DSL line is connected to. Customers can purchase a NIC at most computer electronics store.

What if the CPE stops functioning?

Any problems with your DSL service should be reported directly to Ulink at (866) 339-7100 or support@ulink.net.

Will my ISDN equipment work with Ulink Business DSL?

ISDN terminal adapters and routers might be compatible with Ulink IDSL. However, Ulink provides IDSL equipment that is certified and tested, and we know it works with our IDSL. For this reason we recommend that you purchase equipment from Ulink.

What are the computer requirements to support DSL?

Minimum PC requirements are:

Minimum Macintosh requirements:
Power PC or faster processor
Open Transport 1.1.1 enabled
Mac OS 7.55 or greater
16 MB RAM
50 MB of available hard disk space
CD-ROM drive
Installed 10BaseT Ethernet Network Interface Card

Ulink Business DSL FAQ's

What is the difference between a Web host and a domain name host?

Ulink can host your Web pages, which means our server holds your pages. This makes us your Web host. To register a domain name (www.businessx.com, .net, or .edu) you go to a registration service, which becomes your domain name host. You pay them an annual fee to maintain the name and you tell them how to associate the name with your Ulink Web site. Ulink does not currently provide domain name hosting, but we can do the domain registration process for an additional charge.

Does Ulink offer Web hosting?

Yes, Ulink includes Web hosting packages for businesses.

What type of backbone equipment does Ulink use to provide DSL service?

We use an ATM (asynchronous transfer mode) switch and a DSLAM (DSL access multiplexer) to deliver DSL. This equipment is located in telephone company central offices. ATM is a highly reliable, redundant, robust, scalable backbone technology that allows the integration of voice, video, and data. Ulink is building a widespread ATM backbone, and extending the benefits of advanced broadband access to customers throughout the country.

Does Ulink Business DSL work with both Windows and Macintosh?

Yes. Ulink Business DSL works with both Windows and Macintosh computers. Ulink CPE also works on both Windows and Macintosh computers.

Can DSL be relied on to host a Web server or e-mail server?

Ulink Business DSL is a dedicated connection, which means users can host both e-mail and Web servers. We recommend purchasing at least 768 Kbps SDSL in order to host a Web server that supports the many users who may land on your Web site. Ulink also offers Web hosting and e-mail services if you choose not to host your own.

How many e-mail accounts do I get with Ulink Business DSL?

Ulink Provides three e-mail addresses with your Business DSL account, but they are in the form of yourname@ulink.net. If you are a business that does not already have a presence on the Internet, you may want to consider adding Domain Hosting, which will give you ten e-mail addresses in the form of yourname@yourbusiness.com

How many static IP addresses do I get with my Ulink Business DSL account?

Each DSL account gets 1 static IP address. Additional IP addresses can be provided for an additional charge.

What are my payment options?

Ulink will send monthly bills via mail or we can do monthly credit card billing.

What are the technical assistance hours?
Our technical assistance specialists are available 8 AM - 8 PM Pacific Time at (866) 339-7100.