Downloads keep stalling

[DrewG]

I was hoping one of the many tech savy people cpuld help me with an issue. I've just recently got a new computer and I'm having an issue with downloading things at the moment. About a minute after starting a download (in this case Krellnuts wagon sound pack), the download will stall and get speeds of less than 1 kbps. This happens on I.E, Firefox, and chrome. If I pause the download on chrome and start it again it will D/L normally for a short while and then stall again. I've been able to download 7-zip though, which seems strange that others won't work. I'm using a fresh install of Win 7 and have Security essentials for my AV, (no McAfee or Norton in sight). I'm also using a HomePlug to get my internet to my computer, could the HomePlug cause this? Anyhelp would be great, this is the only flaw in an otherwise perfect beast of a gaming computer.

[buzz456]

Do you have any way to get around Homeplug to experiment and see if it is the problem? Assuming the problem isn't with your ISP that would be about the only thing causing this.

[GSkid]

I agree with Buzz. Bypass the Homeplug and connect directly to your modem or router and see your results. If that doesn't improve things, hook up a different computer and see if the issue persists on it. If it does persist, then the modem, ISP or router would be your next suspects. If another computer downloads with no problems, then the new computer is the likely culprit either as a hardware issue or possibly a software issue.

BTW.... if the problem is on the ISP side, keep in mind that DSL is far more susceptible to line issues than cable or Fiber-optic internet. DSL is susceptible to signal degradation the further in distance your home is from your area's telephone exchange. It's why telephone field-techs might test your line to see if the DSL signal is strong enough for internet service even though it's perfectly fine for your traditional telephone. It's because traditional voice communications are far more tolerant to long distance from the exchange than DSL is.

Also.... copper wires used for telephone lines in homes can corrode over time to the point of reducing speeds or even loss of internet altogether. Coaxial cable lines can also corrode and exhibit the same issues. In those cases you would need new replacement wires or coaxial cables.

[DrewG]

Resting the router seems to have done the trick. Not really sure why but at least I can download now.