After you place the order for DSL internet it will take around a week for the internet to be activated and turned on.
During the activation time the DSL modem will be shipped to you and it usually takes around 2 to 4 days to receive the DSL modem through UPS.
You may receive the DSL modem for Centurylink internet 2 to 3 days before the activation date of your internet and there should be a paper inside the DSL modem box stating your activation date.
A Centurylink Technician will then go to the Central Telco office where the equipment is and activate and setup the internet service.
You can usually plug the DSL modem in on the activation date and it may be ready for use.
But the Centurylink DSL should certainly be activated and working by 8:00 PM the night of the activation date but it can be activated sometimes earlier.