Slow network access in Win2000 and WinXP

[geek-tech]

Hello everyone,

I figured out a solution that has worked on a few networks I manage.

Problem:

Using Win2k or WinXP workstations, tring to access folders over the
network takes forever. ( a minute or more.) Especially folders with
large numbers or files in them. The flashlight goes back and forth
for eternity. I've seen this in both peer-to-peer and NT4 domains.
Mostly in mixed environments.

Solution:

1. Install the IPX/SPX protocol on all of your computers.
2. Disable NetBIOS over TCP/IP.
This varies a bit whether you are in WinXP or Win2000.
a. Start -> Settings -> Control Panel -> Network and Dial-up
Settings
b. Click TCP/IP and click Properties.
c. Click Advanced.
d. Click the WINS tab.
e. Click the Disable NetBIOS over TCP/IP radio button.


I'd love to hear whether this works for people. I spent hours and
hours and $245 on a M$ support call before I came up with this. ( No,
the M$ tech didn't come up with it. It just lead me down this road.)

Note: Adding the IPX/SPX protocol is going to increase your network
traffic significantly. Be aware if your network is taxed already.

-John

Remove the '-nospam' when replying.

 

[Marina Roos]

To be honest, I can hardly believe that installing IPX-protocol is solving
your problem. It's just needed when attaching to a Novell-network.

Marina

 

[geek-tech]

Yeah. I agree it's strange. But from my understanding of the IPX/SPX
protocol it uses less overhead. In addition, the M$ tech gave me some
indication that the binding of the TCP/IP protocol doesn't work quite
right in 2000 and XP. I would love it if someone could really explain
why this works to me. I've fixed four networks with it so far.

-John

 

[Peter Hine]

IPX/SPX actually has a higher overhead than IP due to SPX
(Service Packet Exchange) which broadcasts its services
periodically, which is why it fixes your problem the
server/PC's are telling the network whats available
whether anyone requires info or not. So when you select
Browse the PC has the info already. IP requires a lookup
to the Master browser WINS and or DNS on each request.
This is why IP is the intenet standard because routing has
a low cost.