What is ADSL?
Optus ADSL (Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line) provides a broadband internet connection using the existing copper wire phone network. With ADSL you can have internet on the same line as your home phone.
It's how we deliver the internet when you’re within Optus DSL Direct areas (and not within Optus Cable or NBN network areas). There are two kinds of ADSL at Optus, so read on…
How does ADSL work
ADSL allows transmission of internet data over the existing copper wire telephone network.
With a filter you can also use things like telephones and answering machines on the same phone line.
ADSL download speeds are generally higher than upload speeds. Of course, many factors affect speed such as internet traffic, your line condition, your hardware and software, the data source or destination and your location. Check our internet speeds page to get the facts.
how can I get ADSL?
You need to be in an Optus DSL Direct coverage area to get ADSL. Visit our broadband service checker to see which broadband technology is available where you are.
If you already know you can get ADSL, head on over to take a look at our plans.
Did you know
When the NBN reaches your area, we make it super easy to move over from ADSL. Find out more
Getting ADSL installed
Tech stuff about ADSL
ULL
ULL stands for Unconditioned Local Loop. The Local Loop is the last link of connection in a fixed network like ADSL - the twisted pair copper wire from the local telephone exchange to your premises. In Australia, the Local Loop is often referred to as the 'last mile' or the 'copper mile', and is owned by Telstra.
DSLAMThe DSLAM or Digital Subscriber Line Access Multiplexer is a device that we install at the local telephone exchange. The DSLAM enables us to access the ULL so we can pump more data through. The DSLAM communicates with your modem, aggregates the traffic and sends it deeper into the Optus network.
THE AGGREGATORAs you can probably guess, this device aggregates (or collects) traffic from many DSLAMs. The Aggregator splits up the voice traffic sending it off to the Voice Network; and the data traffic is sent on to the IP Network via an important piece of kit called the BRAS.
BRASThe BRAS or Broadband Remote Access Server routes traffic between the IP Network and modem via the DSLAM. The BRAS is the first IP device you will see on your trace route (after your own device).
Once you’ve plugged in to the Optus IP Network, the rest of the Internet is at your fingertips waiting for you to explore!
Top tips for getting the most out of ADSL
Here are some tips to help you get a better experience from your ADSL broadband connection.
1. USE A FILTERThis one’s a must! Filters or splitters attach to your telephone wall socket and let you connect your modem and home phone on a single phone line. We supply one filter if you get an Optus DSL modem. But if you’re using more devices on the same line, like an answering machine, you’ll need a filter for each device.
2. GET THE RIGHT MODEMWe’ll sort you out with a suitable ADSL WiFi modem or you can use your own compatible modem or router. Have a look at our list of approved modems/routers and downloadable instruction manuals.
3. CHECK YOUR WIFIIf you’re using a WiFi modem, this could be a whole topic in itself. But for best results make sure it’s in a nice, high position and that there aren’t large objects blocking the WiFi signal. Also, make sure devices like microwave ovens or portable phones aren’t causing interference.
4. TROUBLESHOOT YOUR DEVICESSometimes powering your modem off and then on again can fix many connection problems. You can also schedule downloads and other bandwidth-heavy tasks to occur during off-peak times. Check to see how many devices are accessing your connection at the same time - you may need to limit how many are using the net during times of peak traffic.