DSL methods, e.g. ADSL/SDSL, are increasingly used for quick access to the Internet (INT). A data terminal (D1, D2, D3) of the subscriber is connected via a conventional copper twin wire to an accessmultiplexer (DSLAM) by means of a modem (M1, M2, M3). The access multiplexer (DSLAM) is placed in an access node of the network provider, which provides the connection for the subscriber. Typically, the digital subscriber lines (DSL1, DSL2, DSL3) of a number of subscribers are connected via corresponding interface modules of the access multiplexer (DSLAM). The linking of the access multiplexer (DSLAM) to downstream network elements (B-RAS) is effected by means of an Ethernet network that is cost-effective with regard to both design and operation.