Bit torrent problems

**Arno** · 08-18-2007, 05:13 AM

I have never managed to work out Bit torrent. The problem I have is that the download/upload speeds start out fast but always just seem to grind to a halt. I thought this was because I was connecting through a wireless router, but I have my modem plugged straight into my computer now, and it still seems to be happening.

Any tips for a total tech jong?

My computer is a Mac G4 Powerbook. Connected to the internet through cable - supposedly 8mbps connection speed.

**Dug** · 08-18-2007, 06:15 AM

Check that your port is forwarded correctly at your router for your bitorrent client.

**Southeast Maggot** · 08-18-2007, 07:33 AM

Are you on Comcast? I just read an article about how they are severely throttling Bittorrent transfers:

http://torrentfreak.com/comcast-thro...ng-impossible/

**Snow Dog** · 08-18-2007, 09:11 AM

My ISP -- Shaw -- does BitTorrent throttling but turning on encryption fixed that. Most newer routers will support universal plug 'n play so the port forwarding is setup by the torrent client. I have to turn off ZoneAlarm because it can't handle the traffic and I had to upgrade my router software (LinkSys wireless G) because it would hang after a few hours.

When picking a Torrent you have to look at the number of seeds -- the more the merrier. The Torrent client has to be set up (in the preferences) to allow incoming and outgoing requests (with uTorrent you pick the connection speed and type and it'll pick appropriate values). To thwart leechers if you don't share then your download is reduced. Torrents slow down near the end because it takes longer to get the few remaining pieces.

When downloading check the availability -- it should be greater than 1. Since incomplete torrents are shared (once you have part of a torrent you start sharing those pieces) there might not be a complete torrent to download (the higher the better).

Every client is different and you have to learn to interpret the status information.

**TyeStick** · 08-19-2007, 07:03 PM

Originally Posted by Arno

I have never managed to work out Bit torrent. The problem I have is that the download/upload speeds start out fast but always just seem to grind to a halt. I thought this was because I was connecting through a wireless router, but I have my modem plugged straight into my computer now, and it still seems to be happening.

Any tips for a total tech jong?

My computer is a Mac G4 Powerbook. Connected to the internet through cable - supposedly 8mbps connection speed.

Are you downloading off public or private trakcers???

**Arno** · 08-20-2007, 12:39 AM

thanks for the responses. unfortunately i am too much of a JONG (captials appropriate here, i think) to understand them fully but it's given me something to go on