ABSTRACT: Technology - Webster's New Collegiate Dictionary defines it as a "technical method of achieving a practical purpose." A concise, clear definition. But for many, achieving that practical purpose can be more than just a challenge. It can be frustrating, intimidating, time-consuming, and bound to generate the question, "Where Do I Start?"

With the Notes on...series, Telcordia Technologies has devised a starting point for your search through the rapidly developing world of telecommunications. Written by the authors of the successful Telcordia Notes on the Networks document SR-2275, this series similarly contains technical material of interest to engineering and planning groups, as well as descriptions of the characteristics and background of these subjects in lay terms. The difference is that Telcordia Notes on...zeroes in on one technology in each document and breaks it down into manageable terms. From the history, background, and basic elements through a discussion of what the future may bring, our subject matter experts cover the important aspects in few words as possible.

This release in the Notes on...series, Telcordia Notes on DSL, takes you from the fundamentals of this complex high-speed data communications technology to its future trends in a high-level review. Based on the latest information available in the telecommunications industry and standards organizations, this Special Report introduces DSL technologies.

This Special Report, from the company with a unique legacy of expertise in this field (Telcordia (then Bellcore) helped invent DSL in the 1980s), provides the latest information on recent and evolving activities in DSL technology. The report brings the reader quickly up to speed in the areas of commercial DSL deployment and networking, emphasizing the current states of DSL technologies, and available standards.

With Telcordia Notes on DSL you will learn about:

• Internet and data highway congestion and how DSL offers the most promising and effective solution for its reduction
• The different types of DSL-their advantages and disadvantages
• Markets served and services offered by each type of DSL
• Typical architecture and technology specifics for each type of DSL
• Notes on deployment, issues, and the future outlook on this technology
• DSL equipment vendors and Web sites
• What's being done in the area of DSL security.