ADSL

If your PC does not currently have a network card or an onboard NIC, you will need to get a network card.  But most ISP's supply these for free when they come out to set up the modem.

I have a network card but why do i need one for ADSL?

Do i not just need an ADSL modem or does ADSL just use a normal 56k modem?

The ISP i want to use does not come to my house and so i have to buy the hardware myself.

So do i need a special type of modem and what else, if any, do i need.

Thanks

The ISP will supply you with a DSL modem.  I have never seen an ISP that didnt supply them.

If for some reason you need to buy a DSL modem, you can go to any computer retail store to buy one.

Your should check with your ISP for supported hardware; but Alcatel Speed Touch Home should work just fine.

http://www.speedtouchdsl.com

Assuming your in the USA; they've got one for $100.

"LAN interfaces: 10Base T (RJ45), WAN interfaces: ADSL line RJ11, Approved for connection to all major network operators, Multiport self-learning transparent bridge per IEEE 802.1D, RFC 1483 multiprotocol encapsulation over AAL5/ATM: both LLC-SNAP and VC based multiplexing supported, Remote bridge ports are isolated from each other, Can be used with Windows 95, 98, NT, Macintosh and Unix platforms, The modem can operate as a standard network adapter, providing an 'always-on' connection to Internet or corporate network. In this mode the connection is set up when the PC starts up and terminated when the PC is turned off. The always-on mode offers the benefits of a regular network connection, Email is always up to date, and the Internet is ready to go. "

ADSL does not use regular dial-up modems.

An ADSL modem is active and uses the line even if you have no other connection going on. The setup includes a filter (compulsory) that separates the data signal from ordinary phone signals. The ADSL modem is on the "data branch", all other items on the "phone branch".

The "inside" of the ADSL modem is a network connector. Do NOT choose a modem that has an USB interface only, go for ethernet (RJ45).

There is no dial-up procedure, but you may have to use a logon procedure with your ISP.

A recommended add-on is a router, which goes between the modem and your PC. It provides a modicum of protection by hiding your computer behind it. It will also be required if you ever want to have more than one computer using the same ADSL connection.

/RID

RID you said --> A recommended add-on is a router, which goes between the modem and your PC. It provides a modicum of protection by hiding your computer behind it. It will also be required if you ever want to have more than one computer using the same ADSL connection.
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But if i want to have 2 computers using the same ADSL connection can i not just hook the 2 computers up through their network cards using a crossover cable?

Windows has something called ICS, which will make one PC into a "router" of sorts. Some like it, some don't. To me it seems to work sometimes and sometimes not. Even if i did use windows, I'd be wary of the hassle. The smoothest path is a dedicated router box and a switch/hub. US$ 50 - 80 or so will give you both in one box.
/RID

but can i can i not just hook the 2 computers up through their network cards using a crossover cable?