Now there's a way to get naked with your clothes on!

What is it? DSL, or a "digital subscriber line", is a common method by which consumers can receive a broadband (or fast) Internet service. It's delivered via a telephone line, and as such, has in the past required you to have a fixed-line account with a telephone company such as Telstra or Optus. Now there is "naked" DSL, which allows you to receive DSL Internet without also having to rent a fixed-line service. The term "naked" derives from the fact that it's DSL unfettered by other obligations.

But I can't live without a phone! You can still have a phone; just not in the traditional sense. Some people who sign up for naked DSL use their mobile phone for voice communication with the outside world. Others use a Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) telephone service, which allows them to make calls over the Internet instead of a traditional copper phone line. This may bundled with the naked-DSL access.
 
Why would I want naked DSL? You can save money with naked DSL. It may cost a little more than regular DSL, but you won't have to pay the rental on a fixed line, which costs $20 to $30 per month. With the right mobile or VoIP plan, you may find yourself saving on telephone calls as well.

Naked DSL is also especially popular in share-house situations. Often, occupants don't want to be bothered with a shared phone line, but still might need the Internet for work, study, email and updating their My Space page. Before they had no choice but to get a fixed-line account; now they can get naked.

What are the down sides?  Services that use a normal phone line for connection, such as a monitored alarm, fax or pay TV, will not function over a naked Line. Also, if you are renting, you may be liable for the cost of reconnecting the traditional phone line when you move out.
 

Naked DSL allows you to receive fast broadband without a fixed-line account.

Where do I get it? Naked DSL is a relatively new concept; the first service emerged in Australian only in November last year. It's not surprising, then, that at the moment only a small number of Internet service providers (ISPs) offer naked-DSL plans. Among them are Amnet, iiNet, gotalk and Exetel. Many other ISPs have indicated they will introduce naked DSL during the coming year.

How much does it cost? A basic plan will start at around $49.95 per month. This may include free VoIP access, but not necessarily the calls you make using that service. As with regular Internet plans, there are a variety of naked-DSL offers available, all with associated fine print. Research them thoroughly to decide which level of nakedness is right for you.

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