Epic CRC Errors

This is for problem solving detectives out there!

I'm using an unsecured network via a ralink RT73 router. (Which has been unavailable for the past week (unknown reason), but worked like a dream beforehand).

Today (8hrs ago uk time), the connection would connect with

> 90% errors (recieved frames only).

And very slow page load time (majorGeeks was many minutes per page).

Searching the webs I was able to glean some advice and switched the router to 802.11 B Mode only. This was a serious aid, and enabled pages to be loaded to within normal(ish) expectations with:

> 50% errors (received frames only).

Due to the unsecured nature of the network I'm seriously concerned about this connection (and/or my computer) being compramised. Maybe this crc error data is a result of an unscrupulous technique? I use the free Avast and windows (XP) firewall.

--Upadate--
10 minutes ago I reset my router stats and now I see I have 60000 CRC Error frames to 1500 Good frames.

> 97% CRC errors

To double check I reset the stats.. and waited, clicking on nothing (ie still open though) and:

Over 30 seconds received 100 CRC error frames
(2 Good frames on the 31st second)

[pause] Now that number is 24 good to 960 bad.
Although pages still load in about 2 seconds (not great but far better than at the original stage!)

I've checked and considered metallic interference and microwaves etc. 2 weeks ago the connection was working fine in B/G mode.

Thanks for reading.

Apuru

win xp sp3, ralink router, ie8 (i know)

 

moar:

Router noise level is reading 0% @ -115 dBm.
Link Quality stated (by router) as 'good'.

Thought.. Maybe the 50% figure was spurious due to a different type of data transmission yielding less CRCs (ie: after B mode I was able to slowly download my virus definition update files and therefor maybe a different Type of data transfer re: CRCs)

 

Call you provider and have them check your lines.
They can run noise tests and help.