[ale] System requirements for broadband?

[Byron A Jeff]

On Tue, Oct 03, 2006 at 12:00:24PM -0700, Luther wrote:
> Hello, my name is Luther. I've been to a two or three ALE meetings
> over the past couple of years. I've been using Linux since 2002, but
> I am just now trying to get internet access at home. I have a very
> newbie question, and I thought I should ask some local people (you
> guys) for help.

Glad you are aboard. How did you function at home without Internet
access?! ;-)

> I've had a look at the BellSouth and Comcast websites. When I look at
> their system requirements, they say I have to have either Windows or
> Macintosh and 100 MB of hard disk space.

Yes. That's what they support.

> This perplexes me, because
> whenever I go to a friend's house and plug their modem into my
> laptop, I'm online instantly.

Again, that's what they support. And to me it makes sense. I'm sure
both organizations have a tough enough time supporting those two
platforms without adding Linux to the mix. If they did so, I'm sure
they'd raise the price of the service to cover their added support
costs.

> I really don't want to have to deal with the hassle of installing Windows.

I know. It's a challenge.

> Can anyone please explain why they have these system requirements?

See above. There simply isn't a large enough visible market segment to
support. It's a chicken and egg problem. Virtually every one of us on this
list accesses the Internet via Linux boxes. However we have zero presence
to BS or CC because they don't officially support Linux.

> And what should I tell the DSL/cable people when I call them to ask 
> for an installation?

I usually tell them Windows. Then when they get there I'll either encourage
them to set up the physical infratructure until they get a positive lock
on the modem, then I take over, or I'll have a windows laptop available for
the express purpose of letting them finish their install script and move
along. Unfortunately under no circumstances can you tell them that you have
a Linux box, because they'll refuse to connect you up citing that the TOS
states that you must have a Mac or Windows box.

It is frustrating. It's really a don't ask, don't tell type situation. 

Trust your gut that says that the Linux box will almost certainly work with
any Ethernet based modem. Just go through the motions and get online as that's
the true objective.

I've had a Linux box through MediaOne, AT&T and Comcast. It does work.

BAJ