The DesertLink Internet Server basically consists of a single PC and a bunch of inexpensive external modems. Our concept was to keep costs down in two main areas:

1. Initial Investment
2. Monthly Operating Costs

Low Initial Investment

The basis for our server was the recognition that modern PC's are powerful & versatile enough to do just about anything. Serving Internet should be no exception. We spent months experimenting with different combinations of PC hardware and software until we finally got it right.

The Server PC was equipped with a multi I/O card that split a single COM port into a large number of virtual COM ports. An external modem was attached to each virtual port. The software was a winning, yet inexpensive, combination of a Server Environment, Proxy & Firewall Software, and Communication Software that worked terrific!

Low Monthly Operating Costs

Instead of a T1 connection we use a satellite link. We receive all our web requests over a DirecPC Satellite Dish. The requested information is received by the DirecPC Dish for multiple users simultaneously. The server distributes the requested information to the proper user.

Our web requests are sent to the Internet over a single voice grade telephone line. We estimate that 64 users can hammer the web at the same time with this arrangement. An additional group of 64 lines can be added to the system with an extra PC, bringing the total to 128 lines. Beyond 128 lines, parallel 128 line systems can be added.

The prototype server, operating in Western Arizona, has a total monthly cost for Internet send/ receive communications of less than $300/month. Even when local telephone costs, commercial Internet account, virtual serving, and utilities are considered, our monthly costs are well below $1,000/month.