Random Packet Storms crashing my network...

[AFurryReptile]

I currently have 3 computers constantly connected to the network (2 being wireless). For months I've had problems with random disconnects; the whole network will become disconnected from the internet for several minutes at a time.

I just bought a notebook computer and have been using that for about a week now, with no problems on the entire network. I, also, have quit using one of the wireless desktops. Last night, after jumping on that particular desktop for just several minutes, I began to have problems again.

I have heard of these "packet storms", and my best guess is that that is my problem. The desktop is running Vista 64, and the card is a Linksys WMP54G, with 3rd party Ralink Drivers. It doesn't really surprise me that this is happening.

Anyway, if anyone could confirm or refute my suspicions, it would be appreciated. Also, if anyone has any suggestions for a wireless card that performs well under 64 bit Vista, that would help too.

Thanks

Ryan

 

[Jeff7181]

What makes you think that's your problem? What is your guess based on?

 

[AFurryReptile]

My guess is based on the fact that the network has no problems until I start trying to use that particular PC on the internet. When I do, I can bring down the whole network for several minutes at a time, sometimes longer. When I have wired that computer directly, rather than wireless, I also have no problems. I have had the internet company come out more times than I can count, and as far as they can tell, it should be working fine. I can't think of anything else it could be be, but please, if you have any other ideas, let me know.

 

[Jeff7181]

Have you tried disabling all wireless security and encryption? Give that a shot. (just as a troubleshooting step, I'm not suggesting you forget about security/encryption)
Also, you could use Wireshark to capture packets on that PC and see what, if anything is being sent.

 

[AFurryReptile]

I've disabled security, firewalls, and whatnot already. Haven't tried Wireshark (Or even heard of it). Will have to wait till I'm out of work to do that. Thanks so far

 

[ScottMac]

A packet storm / broadcast storm would be caused by having multiple links between the same two devices (usually switch-switch).

If you are connection sharing through a device (like a PC) it looks like a switch (really a bridge, more often than not) and it also qualifies. IF you have a wireless connection, do not use the wired connection at the same time (at least, in your current config) and vice-versa.

The other possibility is that you are interfering / are being interfered with from a neighbor.

Download and run Netstumbler and see what the spectrum activity in your environment looks like and make adjustments accordingly.

Good Luck
Scott