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Network connections dropping since adding a Sorenson VRS

I setup a home network for someone and it was fine with 2 machines. Their modem stopped working and Comcast gave them a new one. At the same time, I have since added a few more machines and a Sorenson VRS into the mix they are having problems when more than 2 machines are on the network at the same time. The Sorenson is a video relay service which allows deaf people to communicate via video. http://www.sorensonvrs.com/ The Sorenson equipment came with the Dlink Router and specified that I add 192.168.0.125 into the DMZ. I tried setting this up without the Dlink Router but then the Sorenson wasn't working. All the machines have been scanned for virus and have the latest security patches. Both routers have the latest firmware.

Here is the setup. The cable modem is plugged into the Dlink Router. Off the Dlink Router I have plugged in the Sorenson VRS, a Dell Laptop, and the Linksys Router. Off the Linksys Router, I have plugged in 2 desktops and there are 2 laptops that connect to this router via a wireless connection.

Cable modem -> Dlink Router -> Sorenson VRS
-> Dell Laptop
-> Linksys -> Dell Desktop
-> Dell Desktop
wireless (Dell Laptop)
wireless (Thinkpad)

ASKER CERTIFIED SOLUTION

Rob Williams

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skates94

ASKER

Unfortunately, I don't know which machines aren't connecting as I haven't been there when they have had problems. The Dell Laptop plugged into the D-LINK router is really only used when the Sorenson VRS is in use.

I have the cable going to the the LAN port of the Linksys. The D-Link IP address is 192.168.0.1 and the Linksys IP address is 192.168.1.1. I'm heading over there this afternoon and will try your suggestions. Thank you for your reply.

Rob Williams

Sounds like the Linksys is set up correctly so that is not likely the problem. May be difficult to diagnose where it sounds like it is not a consistent problem and you are not always on site. Good luck, I will be curious as to how you make out.
--Rob

Rob Williams

Might want to try a bandwidth test just to see how it 'stacks up' against other locations. If low, as suggested, the Sorensen might be taking full control. If that were the case you would normally go to a router that offers QOS (Quality of Service) where you can impose bandwidth restrictions. However sounds like you are required to use the D-Link.
http://www.dslreports.com/stest

masnrock

The VRS might be taking up too much bandwidth. How well do things work when you're NOT using the Sorenson (we're assuming that it's off at that time)? In addition, how often does that unit get used?

Also, you probably want to set up the Linksys as an access point (no DHCP or NAT) rather than as a normal router. It's already been mentioned to use a QoS router.

Does Comcast offer higher speed service in that area (some places you get an additional 2Mbps for some additional fee)? It might alleviate SOME of your problem, but bandwidth control is going to be the key thing to fixing your problem.

What model routers are you using?

skates94

ASKER

The Sorenson is primarly used on weekends, the child that uses it goes to boarding school during the week. They have been having problems during the week when the unit is not on. From what I have read about Sorenson VRS, I have to use the D-Link Router.

The D-Link is modle DI-604 and the Linksys is WRT54G V 1.1

masnrock

Try this: Take the D-Link and Sorenson out of the equation for a few days... a stretch when you know that its user isn't around. The D-Link router might be causing you some headaches. If that's the case, you might need to replace that router... or you might need to tweak some settings on it.

skates94

ASKER

Thank you everyone. I disabled the dhcp from the Linksys and {knock on wood} it's working. This was even with the Sorenson running.

Rob Williams

Thanks skates94,
--Rob

masnrock

Thanks for the update.