A DSLAM is a network equipment that allows multiple customer internet connections to be processed simultaneously, expanding the service area of an internet service provider. It works as a conduit, connecting users to the internet via a single connection, and processes signals and routes them to the termination point. DSLAMs can also be used by companies to make their internet use more efficient, and residential users can route more than one DSLAM for high-speed internet.
Digital Subscriber Line Access Multiplexer, more commonly referred to as a DSLAM, is a network equipment that allows multiple customer Internet connections to be processed at the same time. The device expands the service area in which an Internet service provider can offer high-speed Internet connectivity while maintaining the integrity of the connections. While the equipment is normally co-located at the local telephone exchange, it is also possible to establish a network of remote multiplexers as a means of expanding a coverage area or accommodating new customer connections into the current service area.
Essentially, a DSLAM works like a conduit that allows multiple customers to establish a high-speed gateway to the Internet using a single connection. This is achieved by each of the customers connecting to the local PBX to connect with the multiplexer. From there, the device connects to the internet via its own high-speed capability. As users connected to the device use any type of online service, the signals are processed, sometimes compressed, and routed through the multiplexer and on to the termination point. Similarly, the multiplexer receives feedback from the websites visited and confirms the completion of the interchange, a process known in telephony as a handshake.
To the end user, this process appears to happen instantaneously. Once connected, the user is able to browse the Internet at high speed, depending on the capacity and condition of the user’s computer equipment and the amount of bandwidth the provider dedicates to their DSL services. As long as the connection between the DSLAM and you remains intact, you can quickly handle tasks such as checking email, shopping with online retailers, blogging, and performing any of the many functions that are handled in an online environment today.
Some companies also use this equipment as a means to make their use of the Internet more efficient. Municipalities often follow this pattern with buildings housing government departments. Hotels also tend to use one as part of their internal communications network, as well as a way to create local telephone switch access for voice and Internet connectivity.
For residential DSL service in metropolitan areas, end users can effectively route more than one DSLAM. Remote multiplexers can be strategically placed around the city, usually at telephone switching stations serving different sections of commercial and residential districts, creating a multiplexing network. This approach allows service providers to incrementally add another multiplexer to the network as populations grow or outlying areas are developed for commercial purposes.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
