Network Speed Slowdown

[Folk]

Hi Guys,

A couple of days ago the network speed between the two computers that run Multiuser slowed down to about 100kps. Our normal speed (during file transfers) is normally around 5mbs.

The set up is quite simply 2pcs conected via ethernet cable to a BT Router/Modem. I have no idea why the network speed has fallen so dramatically but it's rendered Actinic MultiUser un usable on the saterlite PC.

Internet speeds are fine, it's just the slow connection between the PCs that is causing the problem. One is running Vista and one is running XP and I know that wont help but even so it was running fine 2 days ago.

Could it be a virus or spyware maybe?

[Duncan Rounding]

It certainly could be. Run the usual spyware and virus checks.
Try connecting a twisted cable directly between the two PCs instead and check the file transfer speeds - that will eliminate the router and internet.

[chris ashdown]

Try conecting the ethernet directly to the other computer if you have a crossover cable

Have you thought of trying a gig ethernet system, you just need cat 6 cables , two gig network cards and a gig switch like the Belkin one for a few bob, very simple upgrade for little money

Do you have a dog that likes cables?

[Folk]

Have you thought of trying a gig ethernet system, you just need cat 6 cables , two gig network cards and a gig switch like the Belkin one for a few bob

No dog as such Chris... however i'm really interested in your 1 gig idea. How would this work with our existing BT Router? Currently we simply plug 2 PCs into the router which is in turn of course plugged into the phone line.

Cheers

[chris ashdown]

Its just my dog bit through our ethernet last week and brought everyone to a standstill for a couple of hours

I have the computers all fitted with gig ethernet cards, then connected to the Belkin gig switch, also connected to the switch is the router

All quick and easy gig between computers with no setting up and internet speed at whatever your old router send to the switch. You do need good cabling though suggest type CAT 6

More computers just connect to switch

I seem to remember the switch was about £45, Cables about £6 -15 on internet depending on length, Network cards about £35 each

[Duncan Rounding]

You can also see some speed improvements by fixing the ethernet card port speeds (at 1Ghz, 100MHz or 10Mhz as relevant) rather than leaving to Auto negotiate.