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The Graveyard - Products No Longer Supported => Routers / COVR => DGL-4500 => Topic started by: kargo27 on March 09, 2011, 04:53:20 PM

Title: Hmmm, I can't tell what my issue is. I think it's modem to internet not router.
Post by: kargo27 on March 09, 2011, 04:53:20 PM
Well guys, I love my DGL-4500.  It's phenomenal.  That being said, I've had some disconnect issues lately.

But I don't know if it's the router or my cable modem (Charter UBEE U10C035, Windows 7).  Occasionally, I get a dropped connection.  I look down on my notebook desktop toolbar and see that the 5 bars for wireless are visible but there's a yellow triangle with an exclamation point in the middle.

I think if I wait the connection comes back on it's own, but I'll usually restart my router if it happens when I'm on it.

I don't have access to the router when this happens, either but maybe that's normal?
Title: Re: Hmmm, I can't tell what my issue is. I think it's modem to internet not router.
Post by: kargo27 on March 09, 2011, 06:10:13 PM
UPDATE: I called Charter and they had the wrong MAC address for my modem.  They enabled my modem although it was working anyway.

I was told by Charter to have the router or modem to automatically choose my DNS Servers.  How do I do that?
Title: Re: Hmmm, I can't tell what my issue is. I think it's modem to internet not router.
Post by: FurryNutz on March 09, 2011, 06:37:52 PM
Its should automatically select the DNS servers. However make sure the router is using them by checking the Status/Device Info/Wan section. You'll see the addresses listed here. Then make sure they are being auto filled in under Basic/Internet/Manual. Copy and paste them from the WAN section under Status if there not.
Title: Re: Hmmm, I can't tell what my issue is. I think it's modem to internet not router.
Post by: kargo27 on March 09, 2011, 06:45:33 PM
Furry, the router is listing the ones I put in manually.  What should I do?  The cable modem doesn't show me any DNS servers and is pretty basic in what it does show.  Only about 5 or 6 screens of stuff.

How do I get my DGL-4500 to find them or how do I find them?
Title: Re: Hmmm, I can't tell what my issue is. I think it's modem to internet not router.
Post by: Hard Harry on March 09, 2011, 06:50:00 PM
Unless you enable advanced DNS or type in a static DNS, it's automatic. Even if it doesn't list the DNS. I highly doabt your DNS is changing that often. 1 every couple of months MAX. And they had the wrong Mac? Hmm. I guess they registered the MAC of the device connected to your modem as part of the provisioning. Few ISP's do that these days. Do you have access to the modem's logs? What do you get at 192.168.100.1?
Title: Re: Hmmm, I can't tell what my issue is. I think it's modem to internet not router.
Post by: FurryNutz on March 09, 2011, 07:00:52 PM
What does the Status/Device Info/Wan section report for the Primary and 2ndary DNS IP addresses? They should be filled in under this section of the 4500 router.

Also if you set these DNS addresses into Basic/Internet/Manual, make sure you enable DNS Relay under Basic/Network settings.
Title: Re: Hmmm, I can't tell what my issue is. I think it's modem to internet not router.
Post by: kargo27 on March 09, 2011, 07:15:48 PM
Thanks guys.

OK, I had used a program that seeks the best DNS Servers and rates them.  Then I used the top 2 as my Primary and Secondary.  But what if one or both are down for service?  I guess I'd rather my router find the best ones automatically if it does this.

I had "Enable Advanced DNS Service" disabled, but just enabled it and it found new DNS Servers for me....but the Primary and Secondary are identical.  WTF?

So, now the WAN section shows this as the Primary and Secondary DNS IP addresses: 204.194.232.200

Title: Re: Hmmm, I can't tell what my issue is. I think it's modem to internet not router.
Post by: FurryNutz on March 09, 2011, 07:21:47 PM
Well, Advanced DNS service gets addresses from other servers, not your ISP.

I think some people use this service, some use DLinks DNS servers or OpenDNS. I think you need to play with these and find the best ones that work best for you.

I'm currently using my ISPs DNS, Advanced DNS Services is disabled and I have manually set them into my router. I think it depends on ISPs, however I haven't seen mine change here.
Title: Re: Hmmm, I can't tell what my issue is. I think it's modem to internet not router.
Post by: kargo27 on March 09, 2011, 07:31:29 PM
Furry, Oh, ok, well then I just disabled Advanced DNS.

I will do the same as you and manually set them in my router.

Harry, I can post my modem logs but it has my MAC listed.  It's all gobbledygook to me but let me know if you'd like to see them.
Title: Re: Hmmm, I can't tell what my issue is. I think it's modem to internet not router.
Post by: LookIntoMyEyees on March 09, 2011, 07:31:55 PM
I would recommend you to not play with it, instead play with it using a program that will test all DNS servers and pick the one that is best for you, closest and one that offers the fastest performance. Just use this program, link will be provided below. Once you get your results you should be fine. If you want to check which is your current DNS all you have to do is open "Run" type in "CMD" once in CMD type in nslookup and it will display your current primary Dns server that has been assign to you. As always have a great day.

ProTip: Never enable Advance Dns, that’s the reason it comes disable by default in the first place. It is for advance users and those who know what they’re doing.

Link: http://code.google.com/p/namebench/ (http://code.google.com/p/namebench/)

--
Chris
Title: Re: Hmmm, I can't tell what my issue is. I think it's modem to internet not router.
Post by: FurryNutz on March 09, 2011, 07:37:15 PM
Interesting little utility Lookin, nice. Trying it out now for kicks...
Title: Re: Hmmm, I can't tell what my issue is. I think it's modem to internet not router.
Post by: kargo27 on March 09, 2011, 07:42:28 PM
Me too, thanks, Chris.
Title: Re: Hmmm, I can't tell what my issue is. I think it's modem to internet not router.
Post by: FurryNutz on March 09, 2011, 07:52:10 PM
What do you put in for the NameHost? I see it auto fills in my routers IP address. This correct or should I use something else?
Title: Re: Hmmm, I can't tell what my issue is. I think it's modem to internet not router.
Post by: LookIntoMyEyees on March 09, 2011, 07:53:13 PM
Knowledge is a thing I like to pass down, I am very good with DNS. Ask questions and I will try my best to guide you. Also you always want to set a primary and a secondary. The Primary should be the fast and the secondary should be the most reliable. Please do note that sometimes the DNS they give are not the best and they vary from person to person. Also I never like using the routers DNS Relay, I rather get my queries straight from my DNS provider as it will be fastest and if they cache everything, well results will get to you must faster. Also there are many other things that you need to know such as every DNS server gives you their own page if you type in a bad URL some might even have spam and advertisement. As always have a great day.

ProTip: when testing for the best DNS server it is always best to not have any internet activity active as it will throw off the speed and time it takes to get to the server and from the servers.
 
--
Chris
Title: Re: Hmmm, I can't tell what my issue is. I think it's modem to internet not router.
Post by: LookIntoMyEyees on March 09, 2011, 07:55:06 PM
What do you put in for the NameHost? I see it auto fills in my routers IP address. This correct or should I use something else?


Basically that means it will compare that to the others DNS server to determine if your current one is faster than the other ones or slower. you will get an incorrect test unless some how it still knows who your Primary DNS server. It is best to disable DNS Relay or connect directly to the modem. If you do disable Dns relay than make sure to restart your computer. Do the "nslookup" in cmd and tell me what you get. if its the rotuer IP you must disable DNS relay. Btw its NameServer not NameHost but still the same, I got the point.

Edits:

Maybe I will write up a guide on how to select the best DNS and everything you need to know. Who knows what I will do.

--
Chris
Title: Re: Hmmm, I can't tell what my issue is. I think it's modem to internet not router.
Post by: FurryNutz on March 09, 2011, 08:09:05 PM
Ok, I direct connected my 7x64 pc to the router with out any other connections going it it...did the nslookup and getting my ISP DNS that namebench initally found. I guess I should go back in and remove it and let the router use automatic DNS before I try the namebench again?

What do I put into the namebench NameServer ip address>?
Title: Re: Hmmm, I can't tell what my issue is. I think it's modem to internet not router.
Post by: FurryNutz on March 09, 2011, 08:12:39 PM
Ok I took out the static IP address and let the router auto assign the DNS from my ISP. Now I opened up NameBench and it's got 2 of the original DNS IP addresses in NameServer.
Title: Re: Hmmm, I can't tell what my issue is. I think it's modem to internet not router.
Post by: LookIntoMyEyees on March 09, 2011, 08:13:58 PM
Your suppose to put your Primary DNS and Secondary DNS. For example these are mines, 156.154.70.1, 167.206.251.129 Primary is first and secondary is second. In order to get yours instead of your routers own DNS you must turn of DNS rely. Have you done that?

--
Chris
Title: Re: Hmmm, I can't tell what my issue is. I think it's modem to internet not router.
Post by: FurryNutz on March 09, 2011, 08:19:07 PM
Basic/Network Settings for DNS Relay and yes I turned my one and yes now I see both Primary and 2ndary DNS address in NamedServer. I'm running the bench now. Seems to be working. What is the Date Source for, I use each of my installed browsers there.
Title: Re: Hmmm, I can't tell what my issue is. I think it's modem to internet not router.
Post by: FurryNutz on March 09, 2011, 08:22:10 PM
Ok so I found a couple of new DNS addresses and now they are input into the Basic/Internet/manual section. Should I keep DNS Relay off? I'm going to go hop on xbox as theres people waiting for me. LOL.
Title: Re: Hmmm, I can't tell what my issue is. I think it's modem to internet not router.
Post by: LookIntoMyEyees on March 09, 2011, 08:29:41 PM
I mean would you rather have the Ip address of the sites you visit saved on the DNS sever "if the support that" or would you rather have them cache by your router? I personally have DNS rely off. Also for all you guys that might think DNS makes your internet faster it doesn't but what it does it allows you to get websites information faster. Thats if the DNS you have is faster than your previous.

--
Chris
Title: Re: Hmmm, I can't tell what my issue is. I think it's modem to internet not router.
Post by: FurryNutz on March 09, 2011, 08:32:28 PM
Well not sure what works best in this case. The only thing that I know is that I do have to enter in the DNS on devices that are not automatically getting DNS Addresses from the router now that DNS relay is turned of.  :-\
Title: Re: Hmmm, I can't tell what my issue is. I think it's modem to internet not router.
Post by: LookIntoMyEyees on March 09, 2011, 08:53:50 PM
Well I think thats were your wrong, all your pc will get the Primary and secondary DNS one they are rebooted. or you could do in "CMD" ipconfig /release and than ipconfig /renew and they should renew everything IP, dns, Etc.

--
Chris
Title: Re: Hmmm, I can't tell what my issue is. I think it's modem to internet not router.
Post by: kargo27 on March 09, 2011, 09:06:40 PM
I'm getting different DNS Servers every time I run it.  How do you know which are the best 2?  Run it a few times and take the average?
Title: Re: Hmmm, I can't tell what my issue is. I think it's modem to internet not router.
Post by: LookIntoMyEyees on March 09, 2011, 09:08:36 PM
I guess you could do that, or try to connect directly to the modem and bypass the router and see if you are still getting different DNS servers. Or just average them out.

--
Chris
Title: Re: Hmmm, I can't tell what my issue is. I think it's modem to internet not router.
Post by: FurryNutz on March 09, 2011, 09:38:01 PM
How about my APs and such. Do I need to set manual DNS or auto?

Well I think thats were your wrong, all your pc will get the Primary and secondary DNS one they are rebooted. or you could do in "CMD" ipconfig /release and than ipconfig /renew and they should renew everything IP, dns, Etc.

--
Chris
Title: Re: Hmmm, I can't tell what my issue is. I think it's modem to internet not router.
Post by: LookIntoMyEyees on March 09, 2011, 09:46:08 PM
That shouldn't be affected by the DNS what settings are we talking about?

--
Chris
Title: Re: Hmmm, I can't tell what my issue is. I think it's modem to internet not router.
Post by: kargo27 on March 10, 2011, 05:37:57 AM
I guess you could do that, or try to connect directly to the modem and bypass the router and see if you are still getting different DNS servers. Or just average them out.

--
Chris

Good point!  I was going through the router.  I'll connect directly to the modem.
Title: Re: Hmmm, I can't tell what my issue is. I think it's modem to internet not router.
Post by: FurryNutz on March 10, 2011, 06:49:32 AM
Let us know what you find out. After I directly connected to the router I noticed it found one different DNS address. I'll try direct to the modem after work today. Nice little utility though. Thank you Lookin.  ;)
Title: Re: Hmmm, I can't tell what my issue is. I think it's modem to internet not router.
Post by: LookIntoMyEyees on March 10, 2011, 12:38:05 PM
Usually with out the program you would have to do it yourself using some type of flash code, but not no more thanks to the folks at Google. It really makes things much more easier and simple. Glad you guys liked it! Like they say, you learn something new everyday.

--
Chris
Title: Re: Hmmm, I can't tell what my issue is. I think it's modem to internet not router.
Post by: FurryNutz on March 10, 2011, 12:54:19 PM
I think Lookin has been holding out on us.  ::)
Title: Re: Hmmm, I can't tell what my issue is. I think it's modem to internet not router.
Post by: LookIntoMyEyees on March 10, 2011, 01:31:57 PM
I think Lookin has been holding out on us.  ::)

 I am sure those are just rumors Furry, so yea I can neither confirm rumors or speculations. (Hope that made sense)

--
Chris
Title: Re: Hmmm, I can't tell what my issue is. I think it's modem to internet not router.
Post by: FurryNutz on March 10, 2011, 01:34:55 PM
So what your saying is that you can neither confirm or deny?

I am sure those are just rumors Furry, so yea I can neither confirm rumors or speculations. (Hope that made sense)

--
Chris
Title: Re: Hmmm, I can't tell what my issue is. I think it's modem to internet not router.
Post by: kargo27 on March 10, 2011, 02:22:38 PM
I like that program a lot.  I used to use this one http://www.grc.com/dns/benchmark.htm

But I like the Google one more.  I have a question about it.  Do you always have to extract it?  I was hoping that it would have an icon or shortcut to click on.
Title: Re: Hmmm, I can't tell what my issue is. I think it's modem to internet not router.
Post by: LookIntoMyEyees on March 10, 2011, 03:29:25 PM
The program is not meant to be used every day, once you select your DNS server you are done, never to use it again. It’s just a test to select which is your fastest DNS server closest to you, but also do remember the internet is always changing and the speeds will vary from day to day. So basically what I am trying to say is you might get the fastest speed from that DNS today but tomorrow it will change.

--
Chris
Title: Re: Hmmm, I can't tell what my issue is. I think it's modem to internet not router.
Post by: Hard Harry on March 10, 2011, 09:22:53 PM
Theres more to DNS then just latency to the server and time it takes to give a resolution. Its also how often they update their logs, if they use blacklists, how many servers they have, server dependability, etc. Not saying that program isn't good(actually I quite like it) but to be honest, unless you have knowledge of how a DNS server works, or your troubleshooting a problem, I say just leave it to your ISP's DNS. Its like firmware, I think some people get the "I dudditz" attitude and think if its new, they want it and it will make everything better. JMHO.
Title: Re: Hmmm, I can't tell what my issue is. I think it's modem to internet not router.
Post by: LookIntoMyEyees on March 10, 2011, 09:59:15 PM
Theres no complication with setting up a DNS server if done properly. Also most people might not notice a speed improvement because in the end all the DNS server does is convert www.google.com into its real form, depending what ever server you are hit with I got 209.85.149.99 So if you type 209.85.149.99 into your browser you will get to one of www.google.com sever! Its easier to type in google.com than to type in 209.85.149 but there are also many more servers than just that for example 74.125.225.19 Yes there are more to a DNS than just a DNS some have more advance features Etc.

Edit: Typos, my spell checker automatically edits words for me.

--
Chris
Title: Re: Hmmm, I can't tell what my issue is. I think it's modem to internet not router.
Post by: Hard Harry on March 10, 2011, 11:23:55 PM
What I mean is the way you go about getting that information is more complicated then your computer sending a query to a certian server and that server answering.

Here is a good break down of what goes on (http://www.dyndns.com/support/kb/what_is_dns.html#how)

This one (http://www.diirwb.net/?p=80) goes a bit more technical

True, most people will never have to understand step 3-6, because there are rarly any problems there, but if your activly comparing DNS, you should look how they differ in those steps.

I am not debating the point though. As you said, its good to be aware of what DNS you are using and many times, DNS outside your ISP's can be a good choice. You provided a cool tool to help finding whats right for you. I just wanted to add my input too. I am not a big believer in quick fixes without understanding. ::rages at PC Pitstop and other such progs:: A tool with understanding can be very powerful though.
Title: Re: Hmmm, I can't tell what my issue is. I think it's modem to internet not router.
Post by: LookIntoMyEyees on March 10, 2011, 11:59:41 PM
Yes, its good to hear everyones input. Those links are good for those who don't know how a DNS work but they are basics, still good though. As I said before I might make a guide on this, so that those who want to add a DNS they can do so painlessly by just following the guide. But I hardly doubt anyone would want to do this?

P.s I hate Dns servers that try's to make money off you for simple DNS that can be done using googles public DNS server and other million free ones. But be careful who you choose! Also if your DNS supports a huge Cache your query's will be much faster or you can simply use the one build into the DGL 4500.

--
Chris
Title: Re: Hmmm, I can't tell what my issue is. I think it's modem to internet not router.
Post by: FurryNutz on March 11, 2011, 06:53:22 AM
WEll is sure is good to see some discussions going on in this forum, was beginning to think everyone left me.  :(

Anyways, Did Kargo27 get his issue resolved?
Hate to forget about him while were in the midst of Hyjacking his OP.  ::) Sorry.

Lookin and Harry, lets start a new thread on DNS.  ;) It's great information.
Title: Re: Hmmm, I can't tell what my issue is. I think it's modem to internet not router.
Post by: kargo27 on March 11, 2011, 11:29:57 AM
Yeah, you selfish bastiages!   :o ;D

Just kidding, I did get my info, thank you, Furry.

I think Harry was correct in my case, it seems like I get faster downloads letting my ISP choose my DNS's.
Title: Re: Hmmm, I can't tell what my issue is. I think it's modem to internet not router.
Post by: FurryNutz on March 11, 2011, 12:06:28 PM
Ya I agree with Harry too. I think thats probably a good rule of Thumb, use the ISP DNS first, if your having issues, then try the NamedBench Utility and see if it clears up the issue. It is a handy utility though. Good to hear your up and running. Enjoy it. I know I do.  ;D
Title: Re: Hmmm, I can't tell what my issue is. I think it's modem to internet not router.
Post by: LookIntoMyEyees on March 11, 2011, 01:21:41 PM
As I said before your DNS does not make your download speed any faster than what they are, most people seem to find there ISP DNS servers faster because they are the closest to you others seems to find third party DNS servers better. For example me, I much prefer to choose my own.

--
Chris
Title: Re: Hmmm, I can't tell what my issue is. I think it's modem to internet not router.
Post by: kargo27 on March 11, 2011, 01:27:59 PM
Chris, I must have missed your post, didn't mean to insinuate that you said differently, friend. Like everyone else, I'm glad you contributed to this thread and DNS discussion.   ;)
Title: Re: Hmmm, I can't tell what my issue is. I think it's modem to internet not router.
Post by: FurryNutz on March 11, 2011, 01:28:46 PM
Yes we know Lookin likes doing things on his own, why he's an island with himself.  :P

Kidding. LOL.

SO start a new DNS threat Lookin. Put that link and your info in there...This is good info man.
Title: Re: Hmmm, I can't tell what my issue is. I think it's modem to internet not router.
Post by: Hard Harry on March 11, 2011, 07:40:56 PM
Yea, DNS discussion it is. Does the DGL actually keep a DNS cache? Sure you don't mean the DNS cache inside your PC? Had no idea it kept one. Any idea how big it is? Blahh, no your right. Time for a new thread.
Title: Re: Hmmm, I can't tell what my issue is. I think it's modem to internet not router.
Post by: LookIntoMyEyees on March 11, 2011, 08:28:43 PM
DNS Topic has been moved > http://forums.dlink.com/index.php?topic=37570.msg122060#msg122060 (http://forums.dlink.com/index.php?topic=37570.msg122060#msg122060)

--
Chris
Title: Re: Hmmm, I can't tell what my issue is. I think it's modem to internet not router.
Post by: FurryNutz on March 12, 2011, 08:59:14 AM
Your Awesome man.