Slower connection due to server?

[MickG]

I have just intalled a windows small business server into my office (Windows SBS 2003) and have 2 desk tops running XP pro and 2 lap tops running vista business connected to the network. Based on this info, should I expect to now have a slower internet connection - curently on a static ADSL 2+ 2400/1000 non shaped plan with OntheNet and am approx 2.3 klms from the exchange.

Prior to installing the SBS and running these new lap tops on Vista, my connection speed appeared to be much faster than it is now.

Understanding that there are many variables here, perhaps someone can shed some light on why I now can't surf as fast......plus the whole system is ssssooooooooo slow it's so frustrating. I would expect this to be related to my first problem, but is no doubt a whole other can of worms:(

Aye, Mick

[incisor]

should really affect internet speed... is it a domain based setup now or just a workgroup?

[HangOver]

Thinking about it logically it shouldn't really be any slower other than your workstations having to authenticate through your new DC and I expect get IP's etc but all that is taken care of while logging on and through the initial first opening session of IE, so no it should not be slower.
Maybe you have installed packet filtering/monitoring this MIGHT slow things down a little but really the speeds you have between your workstations and the DC should easily handle browsing and more.

What connections are you using 10/100/1000 switch/hub brand?
Do you have QoS enabled? if so turn it off.
Do you have a shared printer,(or any other shared hardware) listed on ANY station but is no longer connected, (don't laugh honest check for it).
Check for any mapped drives that no longer exist.
Check all NICs are configured so speed and duplex is set manually to the correct,(fastest speed) eg 100 or 1000 full duplex.
Try not to installl IE7, remove any additional toolbars, eg google, weather etc
Is it a new switch?
Is it consistently slow at different times of the day?
Do your workstations seem to run slower or just your browsing?
Have you do a download/speed test recently from your browser?
(if not try this) (http://www.ozspeedtest.com/)
Is it slower on all systems including your DC?
Can you "live" monitor your internet connection to ensure you are not downloading when you dont realise, eg windows, antivirus updates etc ?

Heaps of variables, as you said, maybe a bit more info re: your network setup and ANY new software/hardware may help?

I have ran out of ideas for now.
Good luck !

[Blknight.aus]

When I got my new laptops which came with vista not XP like I asked for Then had to go back for a software update to business so I could talk to All of my home network stuff not just 5 bloody devices) for about 3 weeks my networks was SLoooow then it picked up..

Turns out It was the rest of the windows package arriving. for some reason between my 2 laptops there was just shy of a GIG of data downloaded into them from the microsoft site.

[CowsGoMoo]

Does it seem to pause when first going to a new website and then go fast again? I've seen issues where the addition of a new server meant changes to the way DNS lookups were done. (ie. Laptops/desktops now going to Windows server for DNS instead of direct to ISP or via router.)

Perhaps try changing the DNS server the worksation is using to the ISP's one and see if it makes a difference.

Be aware though that Windows Active Directory uses DNS so I wouldn't leave leave things pointing all over the place. It kind of wants to be in charge and have everything pointing at your Windows server.

Something to try anyway :)

[MickG]

Thanks for the input guys......unable to answer most o the questions above:( but ill let my IT guy see this thread when he comes back to check......should have guessed I would be struggling before i posted this, so sorry to waste everyone's time but thanks for trying to help:(:D