What kind of cable do you use with AT&T? (DSL?)

kenshindono

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Nov 26, 2004
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I was grabbing some video cables from monoprice for my grandmother and uncle. I figure i should get them a new cable for their internet as well, since theyre using a cable as old as I am =P However, I realized I have no idea what kind of cable you use for DSL! I believe they have AT&T. Is it just a regular phone line? If so, what type? RJ11, 12, 45? could i use a regular ethernet cable? something like this?
http://www.monoprice.com/Product?c_id=102&cp_id=10208&cs_id=1020810&p_id=2151&seq=1&format=2&AID=11051853&PID=6155355&ref=cj&utm_source=cj&utm_medium=11051853&utm_term=VigLink-2470763

says its a 'straight cable' though not really sure what that means. With regular ethernet i just snag cat 6, but i have no idea what to use here. Anyone that can help? I was pausing on placing the order for now untill i figured that out. Monoprice has a bunch of different phone line cables under the rj 11, 12, and 45 and some that ays theyre for phone and data, but i dont know if i should get one of those or use an ethernet or what. I've never used DSL
 


In the U.S. it's RJ11 for the incoming line from the wall to the DSL modem.

You may be able to find a twisted pair cable which would be ideal over a flat cable. If it's an older home with ancient phone wiring, it won't make too much difference what type you purchase.
 


Cat5 refers to the actual cable, while the plugs on the ends are either telephone/DSL plugs (RJ11) or Ethernet plugs (RJ45).

Cat5 is most often used for Ethernet, so it will probably be very difficult to find a premade cable fitted with RJ11 plugs for DSL.

In any case, it appears Monoprice only sells the flat style of cable, either Reverse or Straight. Just buy the straight cable and you should be fine.