DSL HOWTO for Linux | ||
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There are two separate driver projects for this modem. The installation and configuration are completely different, as is the code base. Both are open source and GPL. One is a kernel module solution, originally developed by Alcatel, and now maintained by Johan Verrept. His HOWTO is located at http://linux-usb.sourceforge.net/SpeedTouch/howto.html. I think most would agree that the installation of this driver is the more complex of the two, and more than likely will require some patching (unless your distro has already done this). But, it may have some slight performance benefits since it runs mostly in kernel space. This driver can potentially support both PPPoE and PPPoA connections.
The other driver is by Benoit Papillault and friends. This one has a less complicated installation, and can be done with no patching. All the important parts here are done in user space. For inexperienced users, or just plain ease of use, this may well be the most painless way to go. The home page is http://sourceforge.net/projects/speedtouch and related docs are http://speedtouch.sourceforge.net/docs.php. This driver can also work with 2.2 kernels (2.2.17 or later). PPPoE is not an option with this driver at this time. This driver also does not use the management utility that is part of the Alcatel supplied binary package. It extracts the modem firmware, and then does its own "management", so less dependent on proprietary code. Mandrake is reportedly including an RPM of this driver now.
Since this modem potentially supports both PPPoE and PPPoATM connections, which one is better? Which ever is supported by your ISP, and then which ever works best for you! If your ISP supports both (some do and some don't), you might try each approach and make your own decision. There is no absolute right or wrong on such things. There are just too many variables. Theoretically at least, PPPoA should utilize a little less overhead and system resources.
There are other USB modems on the market that use an Alcatel chipset, such as the Efficient Networks 4060. Do not expect either of these drivers to work with other modems. They won't. You should get a compatible ethernet modem in such situations. There are other USB modems with Linux drivers also. See http://eciadsl.sourceforge.net/.