posted on March 6, 2001 04:11:08 PM
Good afternoon from soggy southern California...
I'm having a problem with my DSL internet service and am hoping someone can share their expertise with me. I've had DSL for almost two years and wouldn't be without it. However, I've just been notified that my provider has declared bankruptcy and my service will be discontinued on 3/20. They have what they call a "safety net" in place for switching to another provider BUT that new provider wants $59.95 a month for service which is a $20 a month increase from what I've been paying. They are also a new company with no track record. I've decided, therefore, to go with the DSL service offered by my phone company which is $39.95 a month. And here's where my problem comes in. In order for my phone company to switch me over, the DSL line must be released by the "wholesaler" who is leasing the line from Verizon, my local phone company. I've done the necessary release request but am being ignored by Covad, the wholesaler (who obviously wants as many people as possible to switch over to the new company). Until the line is released, I'm dead in the water in making any arrangements to switch over in time.
Has anyone ever gone through this?? Is there any higher authority I could contact about this??
posted on March 6, 2001 04:57:21 PM
Why do you have to use the same line?
Can't you call up the phone company and ask for a new install without even mentioning that you had a previous connection? If you have to interrupt service to do that sounds easier than fighting them. If you have to fight it out how about calling your state's public service commission and complaining about being ignored? If that fails how about sueing them to release the line?
posted on March 6, 2001 05:54:08 PM
Hi, gravid, and thanks for your response.
DSL uses the same line as your existing phone connection. When I called to order DSL, they immediately checked while I was on the phone to make sure my phone number and line was clear for DSL - and that's how I found out it wasn't.
But that's a good idea to call the PUC - I think I'll try that tomorrow!
posted on March 7, 2001 06:13:42 AM
I should have said why do you have to use the same connection at the switching house.
I have DSL also but if I dropped the service
I am wired for 4 lines and they could reattach any of them at the switch house and re-assign me an account. Sounds like they want to avoid setting it up again. Just take over the billing and not touch the hardware.
