FreeBSD as a DSL modem?

[Ted Mittelstaedt]

> -----Original Message-----
> From: owner-freebsd-questions at freebsd.org
> [mailto:owner-freebsd-questions at freebsd.org]On Behalf Of Lane
> Sent: Wednesday, December 22, 2004 6:18 PM
> To: freebsd-questions at freebsd.org
> Subject: FreeBSD as a DSL modem?
> 
> 
> Hello Beastie!
> 
> If I hadn't told you lately, I LOVE YOU!
> 
> Here's my question:  Is it possible to configure FreeBSD (5.3) to 
> ACT as a DSL 
> modem?
> 
> I use an Efficient Networks SpeedStream 5360, using PPoE.  But 
> I've had to 
> replace the modem more than once.  Currently everything is 
> working nicely, 
> but I'm anxious about the next failure.
> 
> What I'd like to do is setup a PC to act as router, firewall, AND dsl 
> intermediary so that I can put my working DSL modem on the shelf for 
> emergencies.
> 
> Any pointers are appreciated.

First of all, the SpeedStream 5360 is a dumb DMT bridge, any DSL
modem with the same chipset will work if you set it to the same
VPI/VCI that your provider uses.  For example a Westell DSL
modem model B90-36R516-01 would probably work perfectly.

Secondly, a query for "speedstream 5360" turned up over 50 of them
for sale on Ebay, at least half of which were running under $10.

Lastly, in order to decode the ADSL signal from the phone line
you need an ADSL modem chipset.  That chipset is only to be found
in a DSL modem.  It is not standard on a computer PC motherboard.

Now, as for a PPPoE endpoint, you can easily setup your FreeBSD system
for this.

Ted