Why is my network slowing down after using Bit Torrent?

Question

When I'm using uTorrent, my internet slows down after a variable period of time (usually within 30min). This happens to all the computers on my home network. Even if I close bit torrent (and shut down the computer), the network will continue to be slow. Sometimes, it gradually gets slow until it can't process anything at all except for my IM client.

It doesn't get slow right away either - it starts, then happens semi-gradually. When I try to diagnose and repair, it tells me it can't be fixed automatically. The only solution I've found is taking the power out of the router, then putting it back in.

Answer 1

That,s normal when you use torrents, also your internet provider speed is  it a good price one or the expensive fast download one.

Answer 2

As others have said, that probably is an issue with too many open connections.  Limiting global connections to 200 or less should help.  Updating the firmware is a good idea also.  This uTorrent FAQ has more info:

http://www.utorrent.com/faq.php#Modems_r...

Answer 3

This is a common problem with torrents.  The technical reason is that torrents open large numbers of connections to peers when you're using them (both for uploading and downloading).  This in turn overwhelms the NAT tables in the router which causes what you are talking about.  When the NAT tables get full the router pretty much freezes which is why you need to unplug it and plug it back in.  Unfortunately there is really no solution to this other than bypassing the router or purchasing one that is friendly with torrents.  I've heard good things about the Linksys WRT54G running DD-WRT or OpenWrt but there are various different versions of it and only some of them are good.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Linksys_WRT...

Answer 4

Two problems:

1. As said above, too many logical links to the internet; Try reducing the number of peer and seeds connection to the internet.

2. Some ISPs throttles users using bittorrent downloads. Some torrent programs offer encrypted connections(utorrent). Try it;