Using XP Pro for Server

[John R. Youngman]

Hi. I have a spare PC that I'm using as a file server. It's a P4
with 512MB running XP Pro on a 4 PC network using TCP/IP with a
Netgear router/switch.

It runs OK but the network connection is very slow. It can take a
minute just to browse a folder on this "server."

Can anyone point me to a good setup checklist to maximize file-serving
performance and network speed?

TIA

John

 

[Chuck]

Hi. I have a spare PC that I'm using as a file server. It's a P4
with 512MB running XP Pro on a 4 PC network using TCP/IP with a
Netgear router/switch.

It runs OK but the network connection is very slow. It can take a
minute just to browse a folder on this "server."

Can anyone point me to a good setup checklist to maximize file-serving
performance and network speed?

TIA

John

John,

What model Netgear router? Does it have dual speed capability? Some NICs, also
with auto speed settings, don't give maximum performance when connected to dual
speed hubs (routers).

Try forcing the speed / duplex setting (Media Type under Advanced tab for the
NIC) for your NIC to 100 / Full, if it's capable.

Also, under Settings - Network Connections - Advanced - Advanced Settings -
Provider Order, change the order to:
Microsoft Windows Network
Web Client Network
Microsoft Terminal Services

Cheers,
Chuck
Paranoia comes from experience - and is not necessarily a bad thing.