PDF of this tutorialDefinition
The provisioning of digital subscriber line (DSL)–based service by competitive local exchange carriers (CLECs) and voiceband service by incumbent local exchange carriers (ILECs) on the same loop is frequently called line sharing. Digital subscriber line access multiplexer (DSLAM) applications that leverage shared lines include high-speed Internet services and small office home office (SOHO) muting for residential and small-business users.
Overview
This tutorial examines the impact of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) mandate that requires telephone companies to share the existing high-frequency portion of their telephone lines with CLECs. Prior to the ruling, CLECs were forced to lease a second line from incumbent local exchange carriers (ILECs), driving up operational costs and placing competitors at a disadvantage. Line-sharing levels the competitive playing field and offers consumers high-speed Internet access service via DSL over their current telephone lines at reasonable rates.
This ruling not only presents advantages to end-users and CLECs, but great challenges for expanding ILEC networks to direct the increased traffic on the shared lines. To manage this feat, service providers must explore how to provide high-density DSL output and simultaneously increase service capacity. Ideally, a single-source, end-to-end solution that resolves the narrow bandwidth dilemma should also maintain interoperability with providers’ existing infrastructure.
