As the Internet Melts

First, a quick history lesson: In June's @Home Office, I explained how to lower a value in your Registry settings--the MaxMTU--so data packets arrive from the Internet faster. That's when the bits hit the fan. According to NANOG, if everyone online changed the setting tomorrow, the Internet would collapse (and maybe cause an earthquake in Pasadena). And I suppose it might. But then again, I also heard dire warnings last year that Web caching software might wreak havoc on the Net, and it hasn't.

Some Internet service providers I talked with are extremely concerned about computer users tweaking their MTU settings. However, just as many ISPs aren't at all anxious, with some even recommending the setting change themselves. Over 600 readers have written me (a record) about the subject, many raving about miraculous changes in their Web browsing. For example, Patrick Gallant of Calgary, Alberta, writes, "I tried your suggestion...HOLY COW, THIS BABY SMOKES NOW!!!" To be fair, some readers saw little or no increase. More on that in a sec.

Me? My Supra 56K modem slurps in those smaller data packets twice as fast at the lowered settings. I guess I'll risk a meltdown. But decide for yourself: Visit the NANOG site, and look for messages cordially entitled "PC Bozo's World bites again."

For another perspective, check out Al's WinSock Tuning FAQ. Then make up your own mind. But be forewarned: These sites raise geekspeak to a new level.