In effort to provide the best service to our customer base, Rivnet has deployed DSL to a large portion of our customer base where it is possible. We have been installing specialized equipment to enable us to reach farther distances. Below, are some frequently asked questions about DSL:

All About DSL

So you've heard the buzz about DSL as the next generation Internet access technology. But what is DSL? How does it work? Is it something you should get? Rivnet.com, South Texas ' premier Internet services provider, tells us more...

What is DSL?
DSL stands for Digital Subscriber Line, a technology that uses the existing copper telephone wires to deliver high-speed data services.

What do you mean by high speed?
As an example, Rivnet.com's ADSL service is available at speed of 128kps upstream 256kps downstream. In the future, we will be offering speeds of 640, and 1300Kbps. The top speed (1300Kbps) is up to 50 times faster than a 28.8 Kbps modem, and up to 10 times faster than ISDN.

ADSL? What's that?
ADSL stands for Asymmetrical Digital Subscriber Line, a DSL technology in which the downstream/upstream speeds can differ to the same location, just by changing settings on network components, rather than installing a new line. Many Internet Service Providers, (ISPs) support ADSL because it is the easiest to implement for dedicated Internet access.

At this time, Riviera Telephone Company, Inc. is not providing these Ethernet cards for the computers.

Riviera Telephone Company, Inc. is currently taking orders from customers interested in ADSL service. Pre-qualification of these customer's lines will be performed to decide whether the line meets standards for ADSL service. Should you want your line checked for acceptability or if you simply have questions, comments, or suggestions regarding ADSL, please send e-mail to rtc@rivnet.com.

The Minimum requirements for using DSL on a Windows PC are:

Note:

 

Is DSL a good option for me?
You should consider DSL if you're tired of the length of time it takes to access graphic-intensive web pages or download email attachments. DSL provides a very fast, always-on connection. Another plus for DSL is you can be online and talk on your telephone line at the same time! No more missing calls because you were checking your email or researching something on the Internet!

For small to medium businesses that want to connect their offices to the Internet, DSL provides a dedicated connection at far lower costs than a T-1 line, and does not involve per-minute charges as with ISDN. DSL also facilitates functions that require a high-speed or dedicated connection, such as video conferencing or putting your own web or email servers on the Internet.

Is DSL expensive?
Rivnet.com's, 128kps upstream 256kps downstream ADSL service starts at $40.92 per month. This is the $30.92 tariff rate of $30.92 plus the $10.00 charge for Internet access. There is a one-time installation charge of $99.00 per DSL line which will be waived if you keep your DSL service for a period of 12 months.

The DSL modem will be loaned to the customer, for the time you are a paying DSL customer. At time of termination of DSL, the modem is to be returned to Riviera Telephone Company, Inc., business office at 103 S. 8th Street . This is very cost effective for those who need a fast, reliable, full-time connection to the Internet. If the modem is not returned, the cost of the modem ($100.00) will be added to your monthly telephone bill.