What the heck is going on???

[Paul Binet]

I am using a EnGenius 2011-SR 802.11b wireless router/AP (almost identical to D-Link 713P) with two wired ports and a print server. On my computer I am using a D-Link USB adapter. I have DSL at home but it is not an "always on" service. After a period of inactivity, I am logged off. The DSL provider has a proprietary software which logs me back in. In wired mode all works fine. The USB adapter makes connection with the router, ping confirms this. The setup screens for the router show all is set up for DHCP, just waiting for signal input. When I launch the program which starts the DSL logon, nothing happens...it just keeps waiting for a response. Shouldn't the logon request just pass seamlessly through my USB adapter to the router which is connected to the DSL cable? I'd be glad to call someone for some further guidance. I live in Germany but calling the states is only 6 cents per minute. Help?

Thanks,
Paul Binet

[mupdike]

You should check and see if your router provdes PPoE ability. I have a similar set up, with a SMC router on my DSL and I log in directly through the router. I believe you need to log in through the machine that is connected to the dsl line.

[Paul Binet]

I sorted things out over the weekend and am currently experiencing wireless bliss through PPPoE. I was able to eliminate the ISP's annoying proprietary login software but am still butting heads with their very protective time-out controls. This ISP (Deutsche Telekom) has a 15 minute logout control. It is very smart and recognizes if you've set up a device to simulate net activity...it looks for patterns (i.e. email set to check every 13 minutes) so I'm looking at ways to foil it.

Now it's time to try to introduce my wife's computer to the new network. Fingers are crossed.