Set up dual DSL internet connections with load balancing in the UK.
Set up dual DSL internet connections with load balancing in the UK.
I've relocated to a new home with restricted internet speed because of the distance from the exchange. I now have two distinct phone lines, each connected via 8mbps DSL. I'm curious about managing both lines and distributing network traffic evenly between them. Would investing time and resources be worthwhile?
There are options available to achieve this. A provider offers a service that combines links for shared bandwidth, though I’m unsure about its availability in the UK or compatibility with DSL connections. Alternative methods exist, but their advantages become clear only when you have several active users.
Which one suits you better? The compact model offers limited value—it features just a single WAN port.
PFsense handles this task. It seems simpler than purchasing equipment from a hardware vendor.
The third port is adjustable to work as either a second LAN or WAN port.
Be cautious as certain sites avoid recognizing your IP address due to load balancing; sticky connections might help but could still cause problems. A VPN that merges both into one IP is probably the best choice, though you'd still need a capable router for the whole setup. I'm evaluating this approach for myself using pfSense right now.
Ask you ISP about bonding. Most do it. Its as simple at combining the pairs at the RJ11 and plugging it into a bonding capable modem. Just a heads up because I have a few customers with it. Its not the most stable and strange problems happen if one loses connection momentarily. God forbid latency spikes on one pair. DSL bonding doesnt utilize two IPs. Its a true bond with bit splitting essentially equal to split horizon and then the access card joins them at the end.