tiscali broadband speed

[manofsteel]

I've had Tiscali broadband for about 3 years and have had a 2Mbps connection for about 12 months with no problem. During the last 3 weeks, I'm getting 2Mbps OK during the day but at around 4pm speed drops off to about 600kbps and later in the evening it's been as low as dial-up. Tiscali are investigating this for me but if previous experience is anything to go by I suspect that they'll blame everything except their service.
Has anyone out there got or had a similar problem?
Can anyone explain the problem to me so that I'm better informed to tackle Tiscali ?
Thanks in anticipation.

[VillageVicar]

I have the same problem. Sadly, it's traffic related and not particularly Tiscali's fault. I was with aol for over a decade and switched to virgin. For the first 24 hours I was wizzing along at around 5MPS..but ever since then after 4 pm, the speeds run at around 300-600k...until after midnight.

I suggest that the isp's do this intentionally to allow all users to have at least 'some' access continually...with the advent of streaming, on-line gaming, video and music downloads, the traffic is bulging.. But of course, you can correct this by purchasing a higher premium package from Tiscali...Virgin..or anyone else...it's down to 'ya get what ya pay for.'

have a look at http://www.broadbandwatchdog.co.uk for intersting information and speed tests..

Best of luck

Fr Bill

[manofsteel]

Thanks Fr Bill for the prompt reply, I suspect that deep down
inside I suspected this.As I subscribe to Sky Digital and use their 'phone system, the logical answer seems to be to go the whole hog and have 8 Mbps virtually for free from Mr Murdoch!!!!

[VillageVicar]

Yes, that will ensure you're receiving the maximum potentially available speed. However, it can still be affected by traffic.

I'd also suggest that if your computer is not located close to the primary wall socket, or if you are using an extended lead, then you need to correct this. The closer to the primary socket, the better the accessability you will have.

Also...and this is a bit frightening..if you're using a wireless router, make certain you have the correct blocking in place. It's 'possible' someone is stealing your bandwidth!!

I wish you every success

Fr Bill

[manofsteel]

Just for the record Bill, I'm about 2 feet from my master BT socket and I'm not yet using a wireless system..you've just reinforced my view on the "way forward"...hope I didn't distract you from Parish duties,
Thanks a lot,
manofsteel (from Sheffield and spent a lifetime in the industry)

[VillageVicar]

Well done you! I picked up on your creativity! :-) Yes, between funerals today and desperately needed a mental break!

Best of luck!

Fr Bill