Linux ADSL

[busterG]

I've been using Linux for about 11 years, but I'm a bit out of touch with the state of Linux support for ADLS modems, routers etc - I'm only just getting broadband at home.

So I went into PC World and asked about their ADSL modems, and ADSL/Routers. They told me that all the (external) ADSL modems they stock are in effect WinModems, ie they need software from the operatings system in order to be able to function. I know that gallant attempts have been made to reverse-engineer Linux drivers for these modems, but I'd much rather buy a "standalone" modem that doesn't need a crutch from an operating system.

Can anyone recommend one (that you can still buy new) that they are actually using? I could use either a USB or ethernet modem.

Incidentally, I also asked about ADSL/routers, thinking that this is one other way to get broadband access. But they said no, most of their ADSL/routers also required OS support these days - although they did say that HP are an exception (but didn't stock any). I find all this very disturbing, to the point whether I wonder whether Linux is seriously under threat.

[peteh]

Incidentally, I also asked about ADSL/routers, thinking that this is one other way to get broadband access. But they said no, most of their ADSL/routers also required OS support these days - although they did say that HP are an exception (but didn't stock any). I find all this very disturbing, to the point whether I wonder whether Linux is seriously under threat.

Mine came as a standard BT Voyager router and worked pretty much straight from the box. I also got a USB working before that but that depends on the chipset as to how you configure it.
The router is definitely the best route (no pun intended!).

[likwid]

Just because you need software to use them doesn't really make them winmodems. ADSL uses PPPoE, and you'll need PPPoE software to use the modem. The one I used to use was rp-pppoe.

[busterG]

pete

thanks for the info.

Did you receive a BT Voyager 105, as described here:
http://corz.org/comms/hardware/route...o.php?page=all

This is the modem which my ISP will supply with their package. Certainly sounds interesting!

buster

[likwid]

When I had DSL I had a westell modem. It wasn't a router.

[busterG]

likwid

I was probably being niaive... I just assumed a router would present a programming interface to an operating system, which would just have to know what to call, rather than having to implement anything.

buster

[likwid]

Well your ISP may give you a router and modem all in one, in which case you wouldn't even have to run pppoe software, because the router would handle that.

[peteh]

pete

thanks for the info.

Did you receive a BT Voyager 105, as described here:
http://corz.org/comms/hardware/route...o.php?page=all

This is the modem which my ISP will supply with their package. Certainly sounds interesting!

buster

Yes I did. I got it to work by using the Eciadsl software. It's quite easy - find it here.

[cruetset1080]

busterG,
If you have not already obtained a router modem, here is a very strong recommendation for a Netgear DG834 which is wired, not wireless (less secure).
Just visit Amazon UK and read the customer feedback. It is currently £43 including delivery.