That's correct.. There's layer 2 and then there's layer 3. The
initial connection to most ISP's take place with the MAC address, and
use arp traffic - it's not IP based.
Also, your DSL modem won't work with another ISP because the
languages spoken (simplistic terms) by the modems to the ISP are
different from ISP to ISP. SDSL modems MAY work, more likely than
ADSL, but same reasoning.
Essentially, there is no 'hidden' IP address. You have one IP
address. And most providers now, it's static even if it isn't.
I just looked, and I switched to Comcast the middle of March. I've
had the same IP since. Rebooted EVERYTHING a number of times -
computer, router, cable modem, etc.
At 07:52 PM 5/14/2009, you wrote:
Just a consideration....
As far as I know, ADSL uses PPPoA
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pppoa. This is how the ISP can have you
authenticate before giving you an IP address and consequently, you
can be denied access before a 'connection' can be made.
Of course, the 'connection' is IP, which then runs over the ATM, as
the name implies, Point to Point Protocol OVER ATM.
This may not be the case in all installation all over the world, but
is the case here in NZ. MAC addresses, being unique by RFC
definition are the underlying magic in IP networks, but ATM magic
happens at Layer 1 (connection), so no MAC address required and
consequently, your ISP can identify you and have you authenticate
before shelling out an IP address. I am not 100% certain, having not
worked with ATM before, but I assume the only way to uniquely
identify any ATM packet is by the switch port, which explains why a
techie has to connect your new ADSL before it will work (as opposed
to dial up that works from anywhere) and each provider requires
access to the street cabinet. You can test this by taking your ADSL
modem from one ISP to a friends house who belongs to another ISP. It
does not work, hence the connection layer is the controlling authority.
The articles on Wikipedia are well written and easy to understand
with good links.
I hope this helps.
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