Field Technology Broadband Cookbook



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Copyright (c) 2003 New York Life Insurance Company. This document is the sole property of New York Life Insurance Company. Any unauthorized reproduction or use of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.

Contents

Contents i

1.0 The Short Story 1

2.0 What is Broadband? 1

2.1 Definition 1

2.2 Types of Broadband 1

2.3 Components 4

3.0 Why do I need it? 6

4.0 Who are the providers? 6

4.1 How do I know which to use? 7

5.0 How do I get it? 7

5.1 Preferred Broadband Services Vendors……………………….………………………7

5.2 Web Resources…………………………………………………………………………..8

6.0 What details do I need to be aware of? 8

6.1 Field Technology issues: 8

6.2 Security 9

6.3 Carrier acceptable use policy 9

7.0 How do I use it (with Field Technology)? 10

7.1 Installing the TCP/IP protocol 10

7.2 Internet Explorer Configuration 11

7.3 Field Technology Desktop Configuration 11

7.4 Outlook 2000 Configuration 11

7.5 Outlook 2002 Configuration 12

Appendix 12

Definition of terms 12

Example implementation flowchart: 22

Web links 22

The Short Story

Running a small business in the 21st century requires that business owners be able to respond to prospects and client needs efficiently and immediately. Time is the most important asset an agent has today, and tools like broadband connectivity that help make the best and most efficient use of your time add value and revenue.

At the request of the AAC we have put together this “cookbook” on broadband technology as it exists today. Unfortunately the broadband market, especially the DSL products require interfacing with a number of different players in the telecommunication arena. There isn’t an easy “one-stop” shopping or simple process that exists today, because of all the financial interests among the DSL providers. However New York Life has been able to provide detached agents with two vendors who can help with the process. More information on these vendors and the services they provide are addressed in this document.

What is Broadband?

1 Definition

Broadband is a term used to collectively categorize a number of different methods of high speed connectivity to the Internet. All methods of broadband connectivity offer a substantial increase in speed over conventional “dial-up” access and do not compete with normal office phone connectivity. They all allow an “always on” connection eliminating the need to establish a connection each time you want to get policy and ledger information access your email or FieldNet. This saves lots of time during your busy day, and not just the elimination of the time it takes to dial and establish a connection, but also the speed that your requests will be processed. This discussion will focus on the three most popular forms of broadband for home/small business use; Cable, DSL and Satellite services. Field Technology software works with all three services and configuration information is provided later in this document.

2 Types of Broadband

1 Cable

Cable Broadband service utilizes the same fiber optic wiring already used to provide cable television in customer’s homes. This typically results in a fairly fast turn-a-round for installation, usually between 2 and 7 days. It is widely available for residential customers but not always available for commercial customers. In addition there is a cost differential between residential installations and commercial installations usually twice the cost for the commercial install. Cable Broadband service provides upload speeds of up to 256 Kbps, and download speeds as fast as 1 Mbps. This type of broadband is a shared service, so the speeds are not guaranteed. However the cable companies have put a good deal of load balancing and other equipment to make sure that you have acceptable speeds for your intended usage. Cable broadband service is the most widely used and easiest broadband access service to procure, install and configure.

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2 DSL (digital subscriber line)

|Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) offers fast broadband connectivity over ordinary copper telephone lines presently installed in your home and |

|office. DSL is distance sensitive broadband service which means that the closer you are to the telephone company’s central office the |

|faster your speeds will be. DSL installations take longer to complete since there are a number of components, outside your location, that |

|need to be carefully coordinated for a successful end-to-end connection. It typically takes 30-45 days to complete a DSL installation. |

|Most telephone company customers within an approximate 3 mile distance to their phone company’s central office should be able to get DSL |

|service. In most cases, DSL can travel over the traditional copper wires already installed at your home or business. In some cases, DSL |

|may require new wiring. |

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|There are two types of DSL, Symmetric DSL (SDSL) also referred to as “business-grade” and Asymmetric DSL (ADSL) also referred to as |

|“residential grade”, and both are available in different speeds. |

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|SDSL service provides guaranteed bandwidth for both upstream and downstream speed, for example 384Kbs/384Kbs. ADSL provides a slower |

|upstream speed and a faster downstream speed based on the assumption that most data being sent upstream are request for information which |

|are usually small bits of data compared with the downstream speed where the bandwidth is needed to view graphics and or multimedia content.|

|ADSL usually is quoted as 128Kbs/384Kbs representing the different upstream and downstream speeds. Another important thing to know about |

|ADSL is that the speeds are quoted as “up to” meaning the speed is not guaranteed and could be significantly lower than expected. In |

|contrast the higher priced “business-grade” DSL comes with availability service level agreements (SLA’s), speed guarantees, provider |

|managed installation and proactive circuit monitoring. |

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3 Satellite

As the name implies, satellite broadband uses a space satellite to deliver internet access to your computer. It’s greatest, and perhaps only, compelling benefit is that is can usually be made to work in areas where DSL or Cable services are not available. Satellite Internet is one of the more costly broadband alternatives and it can be several hundred dollars a year more than cable or DSL. Satellite broadband has several physical requirements not found with other types of broadband services.

The most important requirement is that you must have a clear, unobstructed view of the southern sky to receive the signal. Another requirement is that you may notice lags in the time between clicking on a link and receiving the data. These lags, known as latency, do not interfere with most Internet activities but can cause noticeable delay in requesting real-time information. Satellite broadband access usually performs in the 128 Kbps upstream to 500Mbps downstream range.

From your provider, you will need to purchase a satellite dish, which must be mounted at your location by a professional installer, and a satellite modem. The nature of satellite signals is such that they can be negatively affected by poor weather conditions thereby decreasing the performance of your Internet connection. In severe cases, storms can temporarily but totally disrupt your Internet connection.

7 Components

1 Network Interface Card

All forms of broadband require your PC to have an Ethernet connection. Most all computers today have an Ethernet connector built in. If not you can purchase an adapter for under $50 for your PC or Notebook computer. External network interface adapters are also available but need your computer to have an available USB or Firewire port for them to plug into. In most cases it is best to have either a PCI card for your desktop or a PCMCIA card for your Notebook since these cards become integrated with your main system.

2 Modem (cable, DSL or satellite)

The wire coming from your provider must plug into the modem for the broadband signal to be made recognizable to a computer. In many cases the modem is provided by your broadband provider. For a single computer broadband connection the modem is connected, via an Ethernet cable to your computers network interface card. For a multiple computer broadband connection for a local area network, the modem connects, via an Ethernet cable, to a router or switch. Some providers deliver a modem/router/switch as a single integrated device.

3 Router

Typically used only in a multiple computer configuration. When not integrated into the broadband modem this device provides network addressing capabilities and security against unwanted intrusion by others on the Internet. In most cases a hardware firewall is included with the router.

4 Switch

Used only in a multiple computer configuration. When not integrated into the broadband modem this device provides multiple points of connectivity to support multiple computers connecting to the broadband circuit simultaneously.

5 Cable connection

The actual coaxial wiring your cable company runs into your location. Plugs into a cable modem. May be split to provide both cable Internet access and cable television access. There is absolutely no interference between the two services since they operate on different parts of the cable.

6 DSL connection

The actual copper wiring your local telephone company runs into your location. Plugs into a DSL modem. May be split to provide both DSL Internet access and telephone service.

7 Satellite dish & connection

The actual dish shaped transceiver that must be mounted, by a licensed professional, on the outside of your location in such a way as to have an unobstructed view of the southern sky. Coaxial cable is then connected between the dish and the satellite modem inside your home or office.

8 Ethernet cable

Also called category 5 (cat5), connects all the other devices (broadband modems, router, switch & network interface cards together.

Why do I need it?

Broadband saves you and your staff time, and its speeds are far superior to dial-up connectivity. Undeniably an increasing amount of valuable business information is available electronically, via the Internet and the New York Life Intranet via Fieldnet.

New York Life, like most major companies, has developed a strategy to move the Field Technology applications to the web via its Field Technology Portal project. There are many advantages to doing this such as providing a central location to host and service the applications, faster speed to market, software upgrades provided by computer support personnel with no downtime for agents or their staff as well as the ability to provide the authoritative source for your data, and lower support costs. The quicker you can obtain the information you need to process your data the better you’ll be able to service your clients and prospects.

Broadband Internet access will enable you and your staff to obtain valuable business data more efficiently. Broadband can help you gain business advantage by allowing you to spend less time connecting and retrieving data and more time using that information for revenue producing activities.

Who are the providers?

Companies who provide broadband access to the internet include but are not limited to:

|Provider |Type |Check Availability |

|BIS |DSL |Check out the How do I get it? section |

|IVANS |DSL |Check out the How do I get it? section |

|Cox |Cable | |

|Comcast |Cable |Broadband Compass |

|Earthlink |Cable |home/broadband/cable/ |

|RCN |Cable |RCN Cable |

|RoadRunner (Time Warner) |Cable |rdrun |

|Direct PC/Directway |Satellite | |

|Starband |Satellite | |

N.B. Some cable providers block access to 3rd party email servers. They will only allow you to receive mail via their smtp servers. Most of them however do provide an upgrade to their “commercial” service which will allow the use of FT email servers.

1 How do I know which to use?

First you need to decide what is available in your area (DSL, Cable or Satellite) and then you can look at the various offers and pricing models. You may be eligible for DSL, but you are some 10,000 feet from the phone company’s central office which means your speed will not be maximized. In this case you may want to go with your local cable provider. You may be eligible for DSL but don’t want to wait 30-45 days for installation. Again you may want to go with your local cable provider. In any case you should always look at DSL or Cable before looking at Satellite, since it is more expensive and although it works it can be less reliable in some areas.

The following table shows a comparison of several key components of broadband access. The information is indicative of the technologies and not any particular vendor.

|Broadband Technology Options |

|Technology |Speed |Consistency |Availability |Security |Value |

|ADSL |XXX |XXX |XX |XXXX |XXXX |

|SDSL |XXXX |XXXX |XXX |XXXX |XXXXX |

|Cable Modem |XXXX |XXX |XX |XXXX |XXXXX |

|Two-Way Satellite |X |X |XXXX |XXX |XX |

| |

How do I get it?

Although we’d like to be able to work with a single vendor to provide broadband service to detached New York Life agents nationwide, research shows that no single company currently has both the requisite service capacity and a national reach. We found that that service plans and pricing vary dramatically from carrier to carrier and even between residential and commercial programs offered by the same vendor.

Accordingly, we have developed a strategy to empower detached agents with information and third-party support to help you obtain and install the best broadband services available in your local communities.

1 Preferred Broadband Services Vendors

The two recommended vendors, IVANS and BIS, can help you identify the best broadband services for your needs.

IVANS -- IVANS was founded in 1983 to facilitate electronic transfer of data between independent agents and property/casualty insurance companies. Over the years, it has provided telecommunications service to many segments of the insurance business, including New York Life.

IVANS, for example, is the vendor that New York Life works with in providing AT&T GlobalNet dial-up services under the Field Technology Support Program. IVANS also acts as a reseller for AT&T’s business grade DSL service which is available in all states (although not in all communities).

Agents who are interested in AT&T business grade DSL service would actually sign a contract with and would be billed by IVANS. They would manage the entire process from ensuring that DSL service is available at the agent’s location -- and provisioning the service.

BIS -- BIS was founded in 2001 and is headquartered in Minneapolis, MN. The company is a national agent for several carriers, including SBC, Bell South and Qwest. These carriers cover the following states: California, Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Iowa, Nebraska, Washington, Oregon, Montana, Wyoming, Idaho, Colorado, Utah, Arizona, New Mexico, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Tennessee and Kentucky.

BIS will also help detached agents through the entire process of selecting DSL service from identifying a carrier to recommending a service plan. BIS does not act as a reseller. This means that if you are interested in a particular carrier’s DSL service, you would sign an agreement directly with that carrier and would be billed by that carrier. BIS charges a $30 start-up fee for agents who use their service.

5.2 Web Resources

is a website that will allow you to enter your zip code and see a collection of broadband providers that may provide service to your location. Contacting the appropriate provider begins the process of obtaining broadband service. Use the “What details do I need to be aware of” section of this document as a guideline for your discussion with your chosen provider. Once the provider confirms the completion of the circuit, follow the “How do I use it (with Field Technology)” section of this document to confirm correct configuration of the various components (web browser, email, corporate directory, entrust) of your computer that will use the service.

What details do I need to be aware of?

1 Field Technology issues:

Your prospective broadband provider should be made aware of the following requirements:

a. FT e-mail – you need to be able to use your Company provided e-mail account (agent.ft.)

b. NYL email server – to maintain compliance with the NASD regulations and NYL e-mail monitoring initiative the NYL e-mail servers (described to your provider as 3rd party e-mail servers) must be accessible via port 25.

c. Ports – NYL proprietary applications expect the following communication ports to be available:

25 SMTP (outbound e-mail)

110 POP3 (incoming e-mail)

389 LDAP (Corporate address book)

709 (Entrust)

829 (Entrust)

If you are using a local cable company or DSL provider you must make sure that you can access NYL email servers. Some carriers do not allow the user of 3rd party email servers unless you upgrade to their commercial or otherwise known as SOHO (Small office/Home office) service, which in most cases will cost more. The carriers sometime block 3rd party access to prevent the proliferation of Spam and the possible blocking of their domain by others.

2 Security

The security component of a broadband Internet access circuit is called a firewall. The firewall can be software based, via products like Zone Alarm, and installed on each computer using the circuit. This is especially important in single computer configurations. Multiple computer configurations typically make use of a router which provides hardware firewall security via a function of the router called “network address translation”. Separate hardware firewall devices are also available but require very specific configuration to work with Field Technology’s communication components. In most cases, network address translation and/or software firewall protection provide adequate security.

3 Carrier acceptable use policy

Does the provider impose any type of usage restrictions (i.e.: disallow devices that connect multiple computers to a single circuit.)? Also be careful about term lengths and try to negotiate the least term you can so you can get out if the services is not working for you or you find a better alternative.

How do I use it (with Field Technology)?

1 Installing the TCP/IP protocol

Since your broadband connection will need to communicate using what’s called TCP/IP the following instructions will help you install/configure this necessary component on a PC using the identified operating systems.

1 Windows 9x/Me

a. Click on Start point to Settings, and then click Control Panel.

b. Double-click on Network icon.

c. In the Network window, click the Configuration tab.

d. If you don’t see TCP/IP protocol installed, click on Add button, otherwise go to step i.

e. Double-click on Protocol icon.

f. Beneath Manufactures, select Microsoft and beneath Network Protocols, double-click TCP/IP.

g. Close the Network window by clicking OK. (It requires the cab files)

h. When prompted, choose YES to restart the computer so that the changes will take effect.

i. After the TCP/IP protocol is installed, from the Configuration tab, double-click on TCP/IP protocol, select IP address tab, and select Obtain an IP address automatically.

j. When prompted, choose YES to restart the computer so that the changes will take effect.

2 Windows 2000

a. Click on Start point to Settings, and then click Network and Dial-up Connections.

b. Right-click on the Local Area Connection icon, and select Properties.

c. In the Local area connection properties window, click the General tab, if you don’t see Internet Protocol installed click on Install button, otherwise skip to step f.

d. Double-click on Protocol icon.

e. Double-click on Internet protocol icon.

f. After Internet Protocol is installed, double-click on Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) and select Obtain an IP address automatically.

g. Close the Local area connection properties window by clicking Close.

3 Windows XP Professional

Windows XP automatically installs Internet Protocol (TCP/IP). TCP/IP is a core component of the XP operating system and can't be un-installed.

2 Internet Explorer Configuration

a. Go to the Windows Desktop and Right-Click on the Internet Explorer icon. Run your mouse down the pop-up menu and left-click on “Properties”

b. When the Internet Properties Windows appears click on the “Connections” tab along the top of the window.

c. Left click on Connections

d. Select “Never Dial a Connection” if you are able. If you have no dial-up settings this box will be “grayed-out”.

e. Click on “LAN Setting”

f. Verify that the boxes next to “Automatically detect settings” and “Use a proxy server for you LAN” are blank. If not, click in the box to remove the check mark.

g. Click “OK”.

3 Field Technology Desktop Configuration

Once your broadband connection is installed, you must make sure that when you log into the FT Desktop you choose the correct connection type (which will now be “Agent LAN”), even if it is a standalone computer or notebook.

When you are presented with the initial FT Desktop screen below, after clicking on the FT Desktop icon, click on the drop down arrow and select “Agent LAN” from the list. This will now be your FT Desktop setting for Internet access.

If you wish to save this setting so that you are not prompted with this choice again click the checkbox labelled “Make this selection my default and don’t prompt me again”.

Now click OK to select these settings and continue on to the FT Desktop main menu.

SPECIAL NOTE:

If you ever wish to change this setting so that you are prompted every time the FT Desktop starts (you would do this on a notebook PC which might still require a modem connection when outside your office broadband environment) do not click the default setting checkbox..

To undo this setting follow the steps below.

a. From the Field Technology Desktop, select Tools, Connection Type, and select your desired connection type.

b. From the Field Technology Desktop, select Tools, Connection Type, again and select or deselect “Prompt when Starting Desktop” based on your need. Click OK to save your changes which will take effect the next time you start the Field technology Desktop.

4 Outlook 2000 Configuration

These steps are ONLY required by those who are using Outlook 2000 as their E-Mail client.

a. Right Click on the Microsoft Outlook Icon on the Windows desktop.

b. Click on Properties.

c. Click on “Properties”.

d. Click on the “Connection” tab.

e. Select “Connect using my local area network (LAN)”.

f. Click Ok.

g. Click Ok. “pending research for procedure”

5 Outlook 2002 Configuration

These steps are ONLY required by those who are using Outlook 2002 as their E-Mail client.

a. Launch Outlook 2002.

b. Select “Tools”.

c. Select “Email Accounts”.

d. Click on “View or change existing e-mail account”.

e. Click “Next”.

f. Click on “Change”.

g. Click on “More Settings”.

h. Click on “Connection”.

i. Select “Connect using my local area network (LAN)”.

j. Click on “OK”.

k. Click on “Next”.

l. Click on “Finish”.

Appendix

Definition of terms

100Base-T - Also known as "Fast Ethernet," an Ethernet cable standard with a data transfer rate of up to 100 Mbps.

802.3 - The IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers)-defined specification that describes the characteristics of Ethernet (wired) connections.

Access point - A device that exchanges data between computers on a network. An access point typically does not have any firewall or NAT capabilities.

Adapter - Also known as a "network interface card" (NIC). An expansion card or other device used to provide network access to a computer, printer, or other device.

ADSL - (Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line) is a technology for transmitting digital information at a high bandwidth on existing phone lines to homes and businesses. Unlike regular dialup phone service, ADSL provides continuously-available, "always on" connection. ADSL is asymmetric in that it uses most of the channel to transmit downstream to the user and only a small part to receive information from the user. ADSL simultaneously accommodates analog (voice) information on the same line.

Anti-virus software

Protection against malicious computer code usually sent via email but sometimes infecting web site downloads. PCs are particularly vulnerable and you should have anti-virus software installed regardless of your Internet connection method.

ATM – Not Automated Teller Machine but Asynchronous Transfer Mode - an international standard for data transmission in which multiple service types (voice, video, data etc.) are conveyed in fixed-length (53-byte) 'cells'.

Bandwidth - The amount of information, or size of file, that can be sent through a network connection at one time. A connection with more bandwidth can transfer information more quickly.

Base station - A device (also known as a gateway or router) that acts as a central point for networked devices, receives transmitted messages, and forwards them. Broadband networking base stations can link many computers on a single network, and can share an encrypted Internet connection with network devices.

Broadband connection - A high-speed connection, typically 256 Kbps or faster. Broadband services include cable modems, DSL and satellite.

Cable Modem - A device that enables a broadband connection to access the Internet. Cable modems rely on cable television infrastructure, in other words, the data travels on the same lines as your cable television signal.

Cable System: A localized communications network that distributes television, Internet, and telephone services by means of coaxial cables and/or fiber optics.

Central Office - Belonging to your local phone provider, this is the building that houses the phone equipment for your area, such as switches. DSL lines run from the customer's home to this office. It is the distance from this office that determines whether or not you can get DSL service in your home, and what speeds you qualify for. Usually, if you are within about 18,000 feet from the central office, you are able to get some form of DSL service.

Client - Any computer or program that connects to, or requests the services of, another computer or program on a network. For a local area network or the Internet, a client is a computer that uses shared network resources provided by a server.

Client/Server network - A network of two or more computers that rely on a central server to mediate the connections or provide additional system resources. This dependence on a server differentiates a client/server network from a peer-to-peer network.

(Coax)Coaxial Cable: A transmission line 1/4 to 1 inch thick with an inner wire to conduct signals and an outer aluminum coating to act as a ground. The two metal layers are separated by insulation and may be wrapped in a protective plastic sheathing.

Contention Rate

This describes the maximum number of users sharing the bandwidth on the connection between your local exchange and the Internet Service Provider. A customer with a contention ratio of 20:1 never has to share this bandwidth with more than 19 other users

DSL - (digital subscriber line) a technology that exploits unused frequencies on copper telephone lines to transmit traffic typically at multi-megabit speeds. DSL can allow voice and high-speed data to be sent simultaneously over the same line. Because the service is 'always available,' end-users don't need to dial in or wait for call set-up.

DSLAM - Digital Subscriber Line Access Multiplexer - this is the device that connects many ADSL circuits to the BT network by multiplexing traffic onto one or more trunk lines.

Dial-up connection - An Internet connection of limited duration that uses a public telephone network rather than a dedicated circuit or some other type of private network.

DMZ - Acronym for "demilitarized zone." A collection of devices and subnets placed between a private network and the Internet to help protect the private network from unauthorized Internet users.

DNS - Acronym for "Domain Name System." A data query service chiefly used on the Internet for translating host names into Internet addresses. The DNS database maps DNS domain names to IP addresses, so that users can locate computers and services through user-friendly names.

DSU/CSU - Data Service Unit/Channel Service Unit. The devices used to access digital data channels are called DSU/CSUs (Data Service Unit/Channel Service Units). At the customer's end of the telephone connection, these devices perform much the same function for digital circuits that modems provide for analog connections. For example, DSU/CSUs take data from terminals and computers, encode it, and transmit it down the link. At the receive end, another DSU/CSU equalizes the received signal, filters it, and decodes it for interpretation by the end-user.

Dedicated Line - A communications circuit or channel for the exclusive use of a particular subscriber. For example, dedicated lines are used for computers when large amounts of data need to be moved between two points.

Domain name - An address of a network connection that identifies the owner of that address in a hierarchical format: anization.type. For example, identifies the Web server at the White House, which is part of the U.S. government.

Download - The act of transferring computer information from a remote computer to your own local computer.

Downstream - The direction data flows from the Internet down to your computer. Some DSL flavors, such as ADSL and G.lite deliver data a lot faster downstream than upstream

Driver - Within a networking context, a device that mediates communication between a computer and a network adapter installed on that computer.

Duplex - A mode of connection. Full-duplex transmission allows for the simultaneous transfer of information between the sender and the receiver. Half-duplex transmission allows for the transfer of information in only one direction at a time.

Dynamic IP address - The IP address assigned (using the DHCP protocol) to a device that requires it. A dynamic IP address can also be assigned to a base station, gateway, or router by an ISP.

Encryption - The process of encoding data to prevent unauthorized access, especially during transmission. Some broadband networking hardware relies on encryption to ensure that data transmissions cannot be accessed by users outside the network. Also a method for scrambling sensitive messages or data so that it cannot be read without a password.

Ethernet - A networking standard that uses cables to provide network access. Ethernet is the most widely-installed technology to connect computers together.

Ethernet cable - A type of cable that facilitates network communications. An Ethernet cable comes in a couple of flavors. There are twisted pair, and coax Ethernet cables.

Firewall - A security system that helps protect a network from external threats, such as hacker attacks, originating outside the network. A hardware firewall is a connection routing device that has specific data checking settings and that helps protect all of the devices connected to it. A software firewall resides on a single computer, helping to protect that computer from external threats.

G.lite ADSL (or simply G.lite): The G.lite standard was specifically developed to meet the plug-and-play requirements of the consumer market segment. G.lite is a medium bandwidth version of ADSL that allows Internet access at up to 30 times the speed of the fastest 56K analog modems ~ up to 1.5 megabits downstream and up to 500 kilobits upstream. G.lite is an International Telecommunications Union (ITU) standard, globally standardized interoperable ADSL system per ITU G.992.2.

Gateway - A device (also known as a Base Station or router) that acts as a central point for networked devices, receives transmitted messages, and forwards them. Broadband networking base stations can link many Pc’s on a single network, and can share an encrypted Internet connection with network devices.

Gateway address - The IP address you use when you make a connection outside your immediate network.

HDSL: (high data rate DSL) This variety created in the late 1980s delivers symmetric service at speeds up to 2.3 Mbps in both directions. Available at 1.5 or 2.3 Mbps, this symmetric fixed rate application does not provide standard telephone service over the same line and is already standardized through ETSI and ITU (International Telecommunications Union). Seen as an economical replacement for T1 or E1, it uses one, two or three twisted copper pairs.

HDSL2: (2nd generation HDSL) This variant delivers 1.5 Mbps service each way, supporting voice, data, and video using either ATM (asynchronous transfer mode), private-line service or frame relay over a single copper pair. This ANSI (American National Standards Institute) standard for this symmetric service gives a fixed 1.5 Mbps rate both up and downstream. HDSL2 does not provide standard voice telephone service on the same wire pair. HSDL2 differs from HDSL in that HDSL2 uses one pair of wires to convey 1.5 Mbps whereas ANSI HDSL uses two wire pairs.

Host name - The DNS name of a device on a network, used to simplify the process of locating computers on a network.

Hub - A device that has multiple ports and that serves as a central connection point for communication lines from all devices on a network. When data arrives at one port, it is copied to all the other ports.

ICF - Acronym for "Internet Connection Firewall." Firewall software that you use to set restrictions on what information is communicated between your network and the Internet.

ICS - Acronym for "Internet Connection Sharing." A software feature in Windows that allows computers on a network to access online services through a single Internet connection. Broadband networking hardware replaces software ICS.

IDSL: (integrated services digital network DSL) This is a form of DSL that supports symmetric data rates of up to 144 Kbps using existing phone lines. It is unique in that it has the ability to deliver services through a DLC (Digital Loop Carrier: a remote device often placed in newer neighborhoods to simplify the distribution of cable and wiring from the phone company). While DLCs provide a means of simplifying the delivery of traditional voice services to newer neighborhoods, they also provide a unique challenge in delivering DSL into those same neighborhoods. IDSL addresses this market along with ADSL and G.lite as they are implemented directly into those DLCs. IDSL differs from its relative ISDN (integrated services digital network) in that it is an "always-available" service, but capable of using the same terminal adapter, or modem, used for ISDN.

Internet - The Internet is a massive network of networks, a networking infrastructure. It connects millions of computers together globally, forming a network in which any computer can communicate with any other computer as long as they are both connected to the Internet. Information that travels over the Internet does so via a variety of languages known as protocols.

Internet domain - In a networked computer environment, a collection of computers that share a common domain database and security policy. A domain is administered as a unit with common rules and procedures, and each domain has a unique name.

Intranet - A network within an organization that uses Internet technologies (such a Web browser for viewing information) and protocols (such as TCP/IP), but is available only to certain people, such as employees of a company. Also called a private network. Some intranets offer access to the Internet, but such connections are directed through a firewall.

IP - Acronym for "Internet Protocol." The protocol within TCP/IP that is used to send data between computers over the Internet. More specifically, this protocol governs the routing of data messages, which are transmitted in smaller components called packets.

IP address - Acronym for "Internet Protocol" address. IP is the protocol within TCP/IP that is used to send data between computers over the Internet. An IP address is an assigned number used to identify a computer that is connected to a network through TCP/IP. An IP address consists of four numbers (each of which can be no greater than 255) separated by periods, such as 192.168.1.1.

ISP - Acronym for "Internet service provider." A company that provides individuals or companies access to the Internet.

Kbps - Abbreviation of "kilobits per second." Data transfer speed, as through a modem or on a network, measured in multiples of 1,000 bits per second.

LAN - Acronym for "local area network." A group of computers and other devices dispersed over a relatively limited area (for example, a building) and connected by a communications link that enables any device to interact with any other on the network.

Local loop - A generic term for the connection between the customer's premises (home, office, etc.) and the provider's serving central office. Historically, this has been a wire connection. Also colloquially referred to as "the last mile" (even though the actual distance can vary).

Login or logon

The method by which you identify yourself to a host computer. This often means typing a user name and password

MAC address - Abbreviation for "media access control" address. The address that is used for communication between network adapters on the same subnet. Each network adapter is manufactured with its own unique MAC address.

Mapping - A process that allows one computer to communicate with a resource located on another computer on the network. For example, if you want to access a folder that resides on another computer, you "map to" that folder, as long as the computer that holds the folder has been configured to share it.

Mbps - Abbreviation of "megabits per second." A unit of bandwidth measurement that defines the speed at which information can be transferred through a network or Ethernet cable. One megabyte is roughly equivalent to eight megabits.

Modem - A device that transmits and receives information between computers.

NAT - Acronym for "network address translation." The process of converting between IP addresses used within a private network and Internet IP addresses. NAT enables all of the computers on a network to share one IP address. Broadband networking base stations support NAT, which provides an extra layer of network security by masking the actual IP addresses of the computers that are using a base station.

NIC – (Network Interface Card) a computer circuit board or card that is installed in a computer so that the computer can be connected to a network. Personal computers and workstations on a local area network (LAN) typically contain a network interface card specifically designed for the LAN transmission technology, such as Ethernet. Network interface cards provide a dedicated, full-time connection to a network.

Network - A collection of two or more computers that are connected to each other through wired or wireless means. These computers can share access to the Internet and the use of files, printers, and other equipment.

Network adapter - Also known as a "network interface card" (NIC). An expansion card or other device used to provide network access to a computer, printer, or other device.

Network name - The single name of a grouping of computers that are linked together to form a network.

Network printer - A printer that is not connected directly to a computer, but is instead connected directly to a network through a wired or wireless connection.

Packet - A unit of information transmitted as a whole from one device to another on a network.

PC Card - A peripheral device that adds memory, mass storage, modem capability, or other networking services to portable computers.

PCI - Acronym for "Peripheral Component Interconnect." A specific bus type designed to be used with devices that have high bandwidth requirements.

PCI card - A card designed to fit into a PCI expansion slot in a personal computer. PCI cards provide additional functionality; for example, two types of PCI cards are video adapters and network interface cards. See PCI.

PCI expansion slot - A connection socket designed to accommodate PCI cards.

PCMCIA - Acronym for "Personal Computer Memory Card International Association." A nonprofit organization of manufacturers and vendors formed to promote a common technical standard for PC Card based peripherals and the slot designed to hold them, primarily on portable computers and intelligent electronic devices.

PPP - Most well known as a protocol that allows a computer to use a regular telephone line and a modem to make TCP/IP connections and thus be truly on the Internet.

Peer-to-peer network - A network of two or more computers that communicate without using a central server. This lack of reliance on a server differentiates a peer-to-peer network from a client/server network.

PING - A protocol for testing whether a particular computer is connected to the Internet by sending a packet to the computer's IP address and waiting for a response.

Port - A physical connection through which data is transferred between a computer and other devices (such as a monitor, modem, or printer), a network, or another computer. Also, a software channel for network communications.

PPPoE - Acronym for "Point-to-Point Protocol over Ethernet." A specification for connecting users on an Ethernet network to the Internet by using a broadband connection (typically through a DSL modem). Broadband networking hardware supports PPPoE for connections that require it.

Protocol - A set of rules that computers use to communicate with each other over a network

RADSL: (rate adaptive DSL) A non-standard version of ADSL. Note that standard ADSL also permits the ADSL modem to adapt speeds of data transfer. Resource - Any type of hardware (such as a modem or printer) or software (such as an application, file, or game) that users can share on a network.

RJ-11 connector - An attachment used to join a telephone line to a device such as a modem or the external telephone lines.

RJ-45 connector - An attachment found on the ends of all Ethernet cables that connects Ethernet (wired) cables to other devices and computers

Router - A device (also known as a gateway or base station) that acts as a central point for networked devices, receives transmitted messages, and forwards them. Broadband networking base stations can link many computers on a single network, and can share an encrypted Internet connection with network devices.

SDSL: (symmetric DSL) SDSL is a vendor-proprietary version of symmetric DSL that may include bit-rates to and from the customer ranging of 128 kbps to 2.32 Mbps. SDSL is an umbrella term for a number of supplier-specific implementations over a single copper pair providing variable rates of symmetric service. SDSL uses 2B1Q HDSL run on a single pair with an Ethernet interface to the customer. The industry is expected to quickly move towards the higher performing and standardized G.shdsl technology developed by the ITU with support from T1E1.4 (USA) and ETSI (European Telecommunications Standards Institute).

SHDSL is state-of-the-art, industry standard symmetric DSL SHDSL equipment conforms to the ITU Recommendation G.991.2, also known as G.shdsl, approved by the ITU-T February 2001. SHDSL achieves 20% better loop-reach than older versions of symmetric DSL, it causes much less crosstalk into other transmission systems in the same cable, and multi-vendor interoperability is facilitated by the standardization of this technology. SHDSL systems may operate at many bit-rates, from 192 kbps to 2.3 Mbps, thereby maximizing the bit-rate for each customer. G.shdsl specifies operation via one pair of wires, or for operation on longer loops, two pairs of wire may be used. For example, with two pairs of wire, 1.2 Mbps can be sent over 20,000 feet of 26 AWG wire. SHDSL is best suited to data-only applications that need high upstream bit-rates. Though SHDSL does not carry voice like ADSL, new voice-over-DSL techniques may be used to convey digitized voice and data via SHDSL. SHDSL is being deployed primarily for business customers.

Server - A computer that provides shared resources, such as storage space or processing power, to network users.

Shared folder - A folder (on a computer) that has been made available for other people to use on a network.

Shared printer - A printer (connected to a computer) that has been made available for other people to use on a network.

Sharing - To make the resources associated with one computer available to users of other computers on a network.

SMTP - Simple Mail Transfer Protocol. The main protocol used to send electronic mail on the Internet.

Static IP address - A permanent Internet address of a computer (assigned by an ISP).

Subnet - A distinct network that forms part of a larger computer network. Subnets are connected through routers and can use a shared network address to connect to the Internet.

Subnet mask - Typically, a subnet may represent all the machines at one geographic location, in one building, or on the same local area network (LAN). Having an organization's network divided into subnets allows it to be connected to the Internet with a single shared network address. Similar in form to an IP address and typically provided by an ISP. An example of a subnet mask value is 255.255.255.0.

Switch - A central device that functions similarly to a hub, forwarding packets to specific ports rather than broadcasting every packet to every port. A switch is more efficient when used on a high-volume network.

Switching - A communications method that uses temporary rather than permanent connections to establish a link or to route information between two parties. In computer networks, message switching and packet switching allow any two parties to exchange information. Messages are routed (switched) through intermediary stations that together serve to connect the sender and the receiver.

T-1 - A leased-line connection capable of carrying data at 1,544,000 bits-per-second.

T-3 - A leased-line connection capable of carrying data at 44,736,000 bits-per-second

TCP/IP - Acronym for "Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol." A networking protocol that allows computers to communicate across interconnected networks and the Internet. Every computer on the Internet communicates by using TCP/IP.

Throughput - The data transfer rate of a network, measured as the number of kilobytes per second transmitted.

Twisted Pair (TP) - A common form of copper cabling used for telephony and data communications. It consists of two copper lines twisted around each other; the twisting protects the communications from electromagnetic frequency and radio frequency interference. See also unshielded twisted pair.

USB - Acronym for "universal serial bus." USB (Universal Serial Bus) is a plug-and-play interface between a computer and add-on devices (such as audio players, joysticks, keyboards, telephones, scanners, and printers). With USB, a new device can be added to your computer without having to add an adapter card or even having to turn the computer off.

USB adapter - A device that connects to a USB port.

USB connector - The plug end of the USB cable that is connected to a USB port. It is about half an inch wide, rectangular and somewhat flat.

USB port - A rectangular slot in a computer into which a USB connector is inserted.

Upload - The act of transferring computer information from your own computer to a remote computer

Unshielded Twisted Pair (UTP) - A cable with one or more twisted copper wires bound in a plastic sheath. Preferred method to transport data and voice to business workstations and telephones. Unshielded wire is preferred for transporting high speed data, because, at higher speeds, radiation is created. If shielded cabling is used, the radiation is not released and creates interference.

Upstream - The direction data flows from your computer to the Internet. Some DSL flavors, such as ADSL and G.Lite deliver data considerably slower upstream than downstream speed. Businesses with web and email servers require more upstream bandwidth.

VDSL (very high bit rate DSL) Up to 26 Mb/s, over distances up to 50 Meters on short loops such as from fiber to the curb. In most cases, VDSL lines will be served from neighborhood cabinets that link to a Central Office via optical fiber. It is particularly useful for 'campus' environments - universities and business parks, for example. VDSL is currently being introduced in market trials to deliver video services over existing phone lines. VDSL can also be configured in symmetric mode.

Virtual Private Network. This allows a secure, encrypted connection between two points over the Internet.

WAN - Acronym for "wide area network." A geographically widespread network that might include many linked local area networks.

WWW - A system of servers that support specially formatted documents. The documents are formatted in a script called HTML (hypertext Markup Language) that supports links to other documents, as well as graphics, audio, and video files. This means you can jump from one document to another simply by clicking on hot spots. Not all Internet servers are part of the World Wide Web. There are several applications called Web browsers that make it easy to access the World Wide Web; Two of the most popular being Netscape Navigator and Microsoft's Internet Explorer.

The WWW is not the Internet – See Internet - The World Wide Web, or simply Web, is a way of accessing information over the medium of the Internet. It is an information-sharing model that is built on top of the Internet. The Web uses the HTTP protocol, only one of the languages spoken over the Internet, to transmit data

Workgroup - A group of users working on a common project and sharing computer files, typically over a LAN. A user who has a home network that is not being controlled by a domain controller can be a member of a workgroup.

Example implementation flowchart:

Web links

Some potentially helpful websites include:

– identifies broadband providers for your location.

– identifies broadband providers for your location.

– identifies broadband providers for your location.

putingcentral.internet/speedtest.asp - tests the speed of your connection.

education_cable.asp - how cable works.

education_dsl.asp - how DSL works.

education_satellite.asp - how satellite works.

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Field Technology

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New York Life

Field Technology Broadband Cookbook

Digital Subscriber Line

Cable

Contact chosen vendor

This document is intended for use by detached New York Life agents. Agents housed in a G.O. should contact their Office Manager for information on housed agent broadband access.

Identify available broadband types

Satellite

Vendor installs circuit

Configure computer to use broadband circuit

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In order to avoid copyright disputes, this page is only a partial summary.

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