Speeding up file transfer on network

[bigboxes]

Recently, I built a file server and hooked it up to a Linksys broadband router (RT31P2) with my main rig. I enabled file sharing and printer sharing on both PCs. I also went into the properties on all five HDDs on my file server and set them to allow for sharing on the network. Then, I mapped out these drives on my main rig. I now have full access to these HDDs on the file server via my main rig as if they were in the same case.

My question is concerning the transfer speed of files over this "network". Is there something I can do to increase the transfer speed between computers? I am using NetBIOS as the protocol to enable the PCs to communicate with one another. Is there a better protocol? Would cat6 cables, gigabit NICs and a gigabit switch increase transfer rates?

Any advice would be welcome!

~bb

Edit: both are using Windows XP Pro

 

[nweaver]

What transfer speeds are you getting?

 

[JackMDS]

May be this can Help.

Link to: "Speed" (Bandwidth) expectation of Ethernet Home Networks using Windows 98/2000/XP.

:sun:

 

[bigboxes]

I'm not sure of the speed. I just notice the lag when I am moving files from one pc to the other. Also, when I burn music CDs using Nero of files that are stored on the file server I get a lag as the songs load up on the compilation list (prior to burn). Just wanted to speed up the transfer speed.

Thanks of the link JackMDS. I understand that I will realize some significant gains in transfer speed with the migration to gigabyte lan. I have got the nic cards, now just need to fund the switch. I do understand that the gains will be considerably less than originally thought, with those gains limited by the OS.