VPN connection slowing to a halt

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Level 1

6 points

VPN connection slowing to a halt

When working from home, I use a VPN line nearly constantly for 8-10 hours at a time to connect with my company's computer. But at one point in the day, at least, everything slows down to the point where anything I type will take at least 30 seconds or so to appear. I have to shut everything down, quit the VPN and reboot. That fixes it - I'm set to go for another several hours.

I am using an old (in computer years) MacBook Pro (I bought it in 2008 or 2009 - it was the model that still had replacable batteries). And I'm using wi-fi with an Airport Extreme.

Does this problem sound like it's wi-fi based? One of the IT folks at work thinks ithe solution might be to use an ethernet cable.

I was thinking of getting a new iMac, with hopes that the increased speed, RAM memory, etc., would take care of the problem (and of course it would be nicer to use, with the big screen and all. I would also upgrade my Airport to the new one with the 802.llac standard. But if a new iMac and Airport would not help this problem, I might hold off on a new purchase.

Thanks.

MacBook Pro, Mac OS X (10.6.4)

Posted on Nov 18, 2013 10:46 AM

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Answer 1

Nov 18, 2013 11:00 AM in response to bicycledave

What happens if you simply turn off the VPN, is internet slow? Try browsing etc with the VPN off.. Internet with the vpn on is probably using the VPN gateway and so is routed via your company server. Changing that by shutting off the vpn might show you something.

What happens if you then plug in by ethernet and turn off wireless? I personally doubt this is a wireless problem.. but is always good to test.

Exactly what model AE are you using? On what firmware??

There is no way anyone can promise a new setup will fix it unless we can determine the fault.

Several hours of operation before the fault occurs is not going to be obvious in your face type issue.

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Answer 2

bicycledave Author

Level 1

6 points

Nov 18, 2013 11:23 AM in response to LaPastenague

Thanks for your message.

I've not tried just turning off the VPN without rebooting - but this kind of slowdown has never been a problem except when using the VPN.

I think I am using 7.6.4 version of Airport Extreme, if that makes sense.

The tech at work suggested changing channels on the AE, but it is now let for "automatic," which I assume means it switches if it gets overloaded.

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