Home Networking Problem

[goobee]

For about 2 weeks now, my home network (for lack of a better description) has been locking up on me. The network seems to just disappear as none of the computers can see each other or access the internet. Unplugging and resetting the switch gets it going again. I have a completely wired network, nothing wireless.

I’ve replaced the switch 3 times with different models, no improvement. I swapped the cable modem (Charter Cable) for a new one, no improvement. I tried 3 different 4-port routers, no improvement. Last night, I picked up a new 8 port router and eliminated going thru a switch, it still does the same “lock up.”

I have 6 computers and laptops connected to the network. All are running Folding@Home 24/7.

Anyone have any idea how to trouble shoot this? In the back of my mind, I’m wondering if it’s Charter Cable doing it because I have 6 machines attached? Better question, how would they know anyway since I’m behind a router?

Thoughts, comments, suggestions? Thanks.

[YeOldeStonecat]

First...troubleshoot connectivity. Peer to peer network browsing can be a mess, depending on many variables. When it appears to "lock up" next time...before power cycling anything...run some ping tests...ping the routers LAN IP address, and see if you get replies. If you do...you don't have to power cycle the router or switch. If you don't...then you know the switch and/or router possibly is your problem.

[goobee]

You can't ping anything. Pinging from a command box just times out.

Everything has been replaced at least 3 times and the issue persists. Can a flattened cable intermittantly short the switches out and lock them? I have a lengh of cat5 running across the floor under one of those vinyl cable protectors.

[YeOldeStonecat]

Cables under foot traffic can indeed deteriorate...and cause network issues.

Is any network equipment located near anything giving off interference? Switch or router placed on top of subwoofer, or flourescent lighting?

[goobee]

No, it's in a cabinet all by itself. This is very frustrating.

[YeOldeStonecat]

Well...focus on that patch cable that might be getting squished.

Running any P2P software?

[goobee]

Nope, no P2P installed. I just pulled out the one under the vinyl protector. Looks OK but I replaced anyway. Hopefully that'll do it.

[goobee]

Crapped out again last night. I am losing a lot of productivity due to this issue. Grrr!!!!

Gotta keep replacing cables until I find the bad one.