[plug] Westnet DSL troubles: probably not linux issue

[Craig Ringer]

> Just to stop this misconception here which I think is developing.  If 
> you get the problem with WestNet, then you'll get it with Arach, iiNet 
> etc.  They all offer ADSL through Telstra's ADSL network.  Only 
> difference is that it terminates on the respective ISPs' networks and 
> they provide the authentication for it.

Not strictly.
1) There are two different services - the so-called "layer 3" DSL which 
uses Telstra for authentication, etc (older setup) and "layer 2" which 
just feeds the ISP your data at a very low level.

2) Some ISPs use PPPoE, some use transparent bridging, etc on their 
networks - and the configuration of those can cause issues.

Phone line -> DSLAM (at your local exchange) -> ATM
  [local]            [------------------  telstra   ]
PPPoE ==============================================>

-> Wellington St Exchange Perth -> Frame or ATM -> ISP.
[ ------------ telstra -------------------------] [isp]
==================================================>ISP

You can't really have problems with the underlying access, unless (when) 
Telstra breaks something. However, it is quite possible to have a 
variety of issues with your ISP's PPPoE config, authentication systems, etc.

That said, I suspect that in my case my phone line is FUBAR, or maybe my 
DSL-300 is bugged (but I doubt it).

-- 
Craig Ringer
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	-- if it ain't broke, add features 'till it is. (or:)
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