Verizon DSl

[NoBozo]

I just just got Verizon DSL after having MSN Dial Up for years. The DSL sometimes just "Drops Out" and I have to wait for 15-20 minutes for the connection to re-establish. I Re-boot the modem..Re-boot the computer ..etc .....(Ie. the red light flashing on the modem indicating that it's not connected) Is this normal... Just wondering. NB

[trfour]

Not fun at all, NB. About all you can do is get Verizon on the phone and try resolving the problem. Being a new installation you may need to get a tech back out there. I would put the pressure on them and as long as you didn't pay cash, I would stop payment if they don't fix it pronto!

[brk-lnt]

Not an uncommon problem with new DSL installs.

Rebooting the computer isn't going to help resolve that, so I wouldn't bother with that hassle.

Do you know the distance from your house to the CO? If you're running up against the distance limitations of the line there may be little you can do, other than possibly trying a lower speed DSL option.

How is the modem setup in the house in terms of the wiring? Ideally, the DSL modem is located physically close to the demarc (telco box) on your house, and not installed in an interior room off some random phone line outlet in the house.

[NoBozo]

Thanks for the replys guys: I had some initial problems with the Self Install. It ran fine for a couple of days and then dropped out. I talked to a Verizon lady in the Philippines for an hour and 30 minutes at least. She actually took control of my computer remotely. I watched my curser flying all over the screen while she had control. Actually pretty scary to see that.

My speed was supposed to be 1.5 Mbps....she ran a speed test and found only 750 Kbps, so she set up an appointment to have a local Verizon tech come out to the house the next day. When I got done talking with her, I changed my password and that took me offline for good until the local guy came out the next day.

He came in and ran some new wire from the box on the outside of the house directly to the modem. He also went up the pole near the house and made some adjustments relative to "Line Length" from the Verizon distribution center a mile or so away. The way I understood it, he now has me on the shorter leg of the loop now. Speed is now 1.53 Mbps. He reprogrammed the modem (new password, etc) and for the most part everything has been functioning well since. Apparently, your password is stored in the Modem as well as the computer. Change the password in the computer and the Modem no longer knows you.

Last night when the modem Connected again....all by itself.., I posted here and then left it (the modem) ON all night and it was still ON and Connected this morning......although I had shut the computer OFF.

I guess the modem doesn't like being turned On and Off every session. Maybe I'll just leave it ON all the time. NB

PS: Here is the "DSL Speed Test" she used: http://www.speedtest.net/ Use it anytime.

[brk-lnt]

There is really no harm in leaving the modem on.

You should also invest in a decent hardware firewall, unless you know that your modem has something built-in (post the model #?).

The PC remote control technologies are pretty common, you should have had to click something or do something to make that happen though. I doubt that changing any of your passwords would change the bits that do or do not make that possible.

[NoBozo]

The PC remote control technologies are pretty common, you should have had to click something or do something to make that happen though. .


YUP: I had to give Permission for her to take control by clicking something she put up on my screen. Still pretty scary though. :look: She also asked if there were anything on the computer "that I would prefer her not seeing". I presumed that might be any Ugly Porn I might have....:D :D NB

[NoBozo]

Almost forgot: The modem is a Verizon Model 6100G with 3 LED lights on the front. NB

[LIforrelaxin]

NB,

Definately leave your modem on all the time, especially with DSL there are issues with shutting it off. What I would suggest is getting a router to put between your modem and the computer. especially if you have plans of having more then on computer or getting a laptop with Wifi. You can get a fairly decent wireless router for 40 - 60 dollars and setting them up is fairly straight forward.

As for people getting onto your computer.... the router helps with that. But if you don't want to go that way, just get a good firewall software.... and set the firewall level where you feel comfortable. Note I wouldn't just use the Microsoft firewall.... I personally don't think it works at all....

[brk-lnt]

Almost forgot: The modem is a Verizon Model 6100G with 3 LED lights on the front. NB

That's a Westell modem, it's decent, nothing fancy. Depending on how it is setup, it might have basic firewall functions already enabled.

[NoBozo]

That's a Westell modem, it's decent, nothing fancy. Depending on how it is setup, it might have basic firewall functions already enabled.

I just checked the Modem Firewall Settings. It looks like I have the option to change them. NO Security (none) is Checked. My internet surfing habits are VERY Conservative. NB
--------------------------------------------------

Maximum Security (High)


The high security setting only allows basic Internet functionality. The High security setting guarantees to only pass Mail, News, Web, FTP, and IPSEC. All other traffic is not allowed. High security restricts modification by NAT configuration options.

Typical Security (Medium)


The medium security setting only allows basic Internet functionality by default, just like High level security. Medium security, however, allows customization through Port Forwarding configuration so certain traffic can pass.

Minimum Security (Low)


The low security setting will allow all traffic except for known attacks. With low, your modem is visible by other computers on the Internet.

No Security (None)
All traffic is allowed.

Custom Security (None)


Custom is a very advanced configuration option that allows you to edit the firewall configuration directly. Only expert users should attempt this.

[brk-lnt]

I just checked the Modem Firewall Settings. It looks like I have the option to change them. NO Security (none) is Checked. My internet surfing habits are VERY Conservative. NB


You should probably set it for medium or high. It sounds like right now the modem isn't providing any filtering at all.

[NoBozo]

You should probably set it for medium or high. It sounds like right now the modem isn't providing any filtering at all.

Thanks Brk-Int. I just set it to Medium. Fortunately, when the Verizon Tech guy was here, he left me with numerous handy little Links, one of which allows me to look at, and change some modem settings. :) NB

[brk-lnt]

Thanks Brk-Int. I just set it to Medium. Fortunately, when the Verizon Tech guy was here, he left me with numerous handy little Links, one of which allows me to look at, and change some modem settings. :) NB

No problem...

And I need to change my username... Not that it matters, but it's L N T, for Lady and the Tramp, which is the name of the boat...

Odd trivia for the day :)

Also, try doing a security scan now and see what it comes back with.

There are many places that do this, these are a couple of links that I had handy:

http://www.qualys.com/forms/trials/qualysguard_free_scan/
http://www.auditmypc.com/firewall-test.asp

[NoBozo]

Havn't seen any adverse results so far from the Medium settings...SO..I just upped the anty to Maximum Security. We'll see how that works. :look: NB

[brk-lnt]

Havn't seen any adverse results so far from the Medium settings...SO..I just upped the anty to Maximum Security. We'll see how that works. :look: NB

From what you posted earlier, it won't make any noticeable difference, the high security mode just removes the ability to manually edit some of the granular settings, so it should be fine.

[RI Swamp Yankee]

The DSL modem is intended to remain on all the time. When shut off and back on it usually takes about 5 minutes to "retrain". The retraining process is where the DSL modem and the Central Office DSLAM (Digital Subscriber Line Access Multiplexer) send analog tones back and forth to decide which analog tones to use to create the simulated digital signal. (Yes, DSL is really all analog!) Often, if the DSL modem is turned off for a long period the DSLAM will lock out the line when it detects there is nothing at the far end (the subscriber end) rather that keep up the attempts at retraining.

[trfour]

The DSL modem is intended to remain on all the time. When shut off and back on it usually takes about 5 minutes to "retrain". The retraining process is where the DSL modem and the Central Office DSLAM (Digital Subscriber Line Access Multiplexer) send analog tones back and forth to decide which analog tones to use to create the simulated digital signal. (Yes, DSL is really all analog!) Often, if the DSL modem is turned off for a long period the DSLAM will lock out the line when it detects there is nothing at the far end (the subscriber end) rather that keep up the attempts at retraining.

Absolutely RI Swamp Yankee, my DSL was sent by snail mail, I did the install, and in the install instructions it said to leave the modem On for a few days to increase speed. I leave it on most of the time but shut it down during severe weather thunder storms, even though the phone & DSL line is protected by a surge protector. Then when I fire up the system, the modem only takes about a minute to get back online.
Regards,
Terry

[SteveA]

You should also invest in a decent hardware firewall, unless you know that your modem has something built-in (post the model #?).

I've had very good protection from Zone Alarm. It was a bit of a pain in the backside to set-up at first. But, the updates and version changes have been very easy.

http://www.zonealarm.com/security/en-us/zonealarm-pc-security-free-firewall.htm

I have the automatic update turned off, it came on almost every week, locking up my computer while it "updated". Instead I use the "check for updates" button every month or so and let it run and update when I'm not going to need the computer.

I also keep an eye on how my protection is working. This site is pretty cool, and free. It tries to contact your computer and tests the firewall. My Zone Alarm always passes with flying colors. It's called "Shields Up" . They have some sales pitches but overall it seems to be a fairly complete test of the firewall.

https://www.grc.com/x/ne.dll?bh0bkyd2

This site lists a few more on-line firewall test sites. I've tried them all and like the "Shields Up" the best.

[brk-lnt]

I've had very good protection from Zone Alarm. It was a bit of a pain in the backside to set-up at first. But, the updates and version changes have been very easy.


I think it's partially a matter of philosophy. I've worked with computers and networks for many many years and just don't trust the security model of Windows to rely on a software package on the machine itself to fully protect from outside attacks.

I'd rather use a purpose-built device that can keep any unwanted data completely off the PC.

[NoBozo]

PS: Here is the "DSL Speed Test" she used: http://www.speedtest.net/ Use it anytime.

I think this Website may be... A Come On. The last couple of days the site says my "Latency" has a problem. Won't give me my speed. I'm thinking maybe they gave me a certain number of "Tests" .... and then I have to BUY something. :rolleye2: Other sites that test DSL speed didn't have a "Latency" problem. :D NB

[upthesaukee]

I think this Website may be... A Come On. The last couple of days the site says my "Latency" has a problem. Won't give me my speed. I'm thinking maybe they gave me a certain number of "Tests" .... and then I have to BUY something. :rolleye2: Other sites that test DSL speed didn't have a "Latency" problem. :D NB
And have used speedtest.net. no latency problem, no attempt to get me "to buy something". 6.8 or so on the download, .5 on the upload and I think 26ms on the ping. Have used it regularly, never seemed to have a test limit, in fact I ran three locations: Portland, Manchester, and Boston.

fwiw :)

[wifi]

I've found http://www.speakeasy.net/speedtest/ to be a reliable and consistent test.

[NoBozo]

Just tried SpeedTest again and it still says I have a Latency error and will not give a speed. I also just tried SpeakEasy for two or rhree cities, and it worked fine every time I tried it....except Seattle..no go..

I HAVE been having problems the last few days. Anywhere from 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM EST, the modem will just intermitently drop the connection. Sometimes re-booting/power cycling the modem works, sometimes it won't. Sometimes it just descides to RE Connect all by itself. I have been UN Connected for as long as an hour....OFF and ON ...during the three hour period from 5 to 8. The rest of the day it works fine. I've been leaving the modem ON all the time now.

Last night I called an Verizon 800 number in Canada. Live person right away. After describing the problem to the guy, the guy said it "sounds like a BAD Modem, we'll send you a new one right away. He didn't even think about it. "We'll send you a new one". Okey Dokey. :) NB

[NoBozo]

I found out why SpeedTest.net doesn't work. If I turn the security firewall in the Modem to OFF (Default Setting) ..SpeedTest.net works fine. SpeakEasy Speed Test is NOT blocked by the firewall. NB

[NoBozo]

My current Modem only dropped out for a couple of minutes last night and then re connected. OK all day today. No drop so far tonight. Did I overreact..?

The NEW Modem came from Verizon this afternoon: Replacement Westell 6100G Modem, Adapter/power cable, and USB/ethernet cable. NO INSTRUCTIONS whatsever. Googling indicates there is NO Manual available either.

So is this modem replacement a "Plug N Play" thingy or is this a new install..?? Does the Old Modem retain any information.....or is all the information it needs to function held @ Verizon. Just wondering. :look::look: Thanks for your input. NB

[brk-lnt]

The new modem is likely already pre-configured with relevant VPI/VCI info to bring up your connection. Just plug all the same wires from the old modem into the same ports on the new modem, power it up and go. You will likely want to reboot your PC(s) as well.

[NoBozo]

The new modem is likely already pre-configured with relevant VPI/VCI info to bring up your connection. Just plug all the same wires from the old modem into the same ports on the new modem, power it up and go. You will likely want to reboot your PC(s) as well.

Thanks brk-int. I was a litttle concerned because the local Verizon Tech guy that came out to the house a week or so ago did some keyboard stuff that I didn't follow...including establishing a link to my old MSN Dial Up so I can have all my MSN stuff over the DSL Modem. Verizon doesn't offer MSN anymore.

I'm still paying for the Dial Up...in addition to Verizon, because ....I like MSN and the Verizon Webmail is horrible. The DSL SPEED makes it easy to pay for both.......FAST Speed AND my MSN. :) NB

PS: "You will likely want to reboot your PC(s) as well" I've been turning the computer OFF every night..(Modem left ON) . Could this be causing a problem..?

[brk-lnt]

Could this be causing a problem..?

No. I wrote that because your modem assigns your PC an IP address. The new modem should be setup to assign IP's from a similar range. But, if it wasn't it is possible your PC could have an IP from the old modem that would not be compatible with the new modems settings. Rebooting the PC would cause it to get a new IP from the new modem, ensuring compatibility.

[NoBozo]

No. I wrote that because your modem assigns your PC an IP address. The new modem should be setup to assign IP's from a similar range. But, if it wasn't it is possible your PC could have an IP from the old modem that would not be compatible with the new modems settings. Rebooting the PC would cause it to get a new IP from the new modem, ensuring compatibility.

Thanks brk: I'm going to wait a couple of days to see if the OLD Modem repeats it's bad behavior. Might learn something..maybe not. Then I have to send it back to Verizon. They sent pre-paid labels for that.

Still can't figure out why the modem would work 98% of the time...and then drop out intermitently during the same (apparently) three hour time period on subsiquent days..and then re-connect stable for hours on end afterward. The wonders of technolgy never cease to amaze. :D NB

Thanks for your input during these little episodes. NB

[NoBozo]

It's been eleven days since my last post on this subject. The OLD Modem is still hanging in there....with a Dropped Connection every now and then. I'm still sitting on the NEW Modem (in the box) that Verizon sent me.

I guess I'm still trying to figure out if this occassional connection drop is pretty much NORMAL for DSL. If this Drop thingy is normal...replacing the modem with a NEW one probably is a waste...NO..??

Any ideas..?

I'm still concerned if the new modem is ABSOLUTELY "Plug and Play". I'm no Techy and don't want to get into any MORE trouble. :look: NB