I've done this:

My main phone line is unlisted and has caller ID - that is for
conversation:

I kept my second line - I placed my fax, DSL and Modem dial in and out on
it.

I've got my own internal network - I have 4 computers and 3 printers on my
own network connected to a 10/100 hub connected to my router/Firewall
connected to the DSL - I either share an external modem or have the
computers modem's connected to shared RJ jacks on the same line as the DSL
and fax - so on the worst possibilities I can get on the network - on one
computer - any time and any service I belong too!

I then got the LEAST amount of cost and service on the line with my modems
and fax and it costing me about $17.00 - but I have this and if anything
goes wrong - it does not affect my home voice or long distance service if
something is down....

I had a choice of DSL or Cable - I trusted my DSL provider more then the
local cable provider and since I've got the service back on January of this
year - I've had full function and availability and with a combine cost of a
little less then a $100.00 a month for two phone lines, one unlisted, Caller
Id, three way callling and call forwarding and DSL for my own network.  I
have wired my house so phone and DSL are available through out by
double-jacking (taking the existing 8 wires and splitting them to 4/4 for
separate RJ jacks - cost was the double jack outlets and my time) and it has
been nice.

Richard

>>> [log in to unmask] 10/19/2002 10:22:40 PM >>>
I currently have two phone lines; an unlisted number I use for regular
calling and that I give to friends.  The second that I never answer, I use
to
go online, for answering machine, to receive faxes and give out to
people/businesses that I need to give contact phone number to, but may not
want to talk to.  They can leave message and I can call them back at my
convenience.  It does wonders cutting back on telemarketers!

Well, it's time to go broadband, so it's time to dump the second line.
But,
how do I segregate my personal phone calls from the chafe?  Not to mention
the calls from the faxes?  I really like having the second phone number,
but
I can't see continuing to pay for it.

What solutions are there?

William Closure

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       tips, information and ideas: NOSPIN-L, The NOSPIN Magazine
           Visit our web site to signup: http://freepctech.com