Will changing the MTU be a problem?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the implications of changing the Maximum Transmission Unit (MTU) size, specifically addressing a case where the MTU is set to 1505. The user expresses concern about altering this value, fearing potential connection issues with their DSL service. They learn that the MTU can be adjusted using the command "netsh interface ipv4 set subinterface 'Local Area Connection' mtu=1404 store=persistent" and are advised to consult with their DSL provider before making changes. Additionally, a method to determine the optimal MTU size through ping tests is outlined, emphasizing the importance of backing up current settings prior to modification.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Maximum Transmission Unit (MTU) concepts
  • Familiarity with the Windows command line interface
  • Basic knowledge of DSL internet connections
  • Experience with network troubleshooting techniques
NEXT STEPS
  • Learn how to execute ping tests to determine optimal MTU size
  • Research the command "netsh interface ipv4" for network configuration
  • Explore the implications of MTU settings on network performance
  • Investigate backup strategies for network settings before changes
USEFUL FOR

Network administrators, IT professionals, and anyone troubleshooting DSL connection issues or optimizing network performance through MTU adjustments.

dlgoff
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I've had this problem here for a while and think I've found the reason "why".

https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=517098"

Evidently there are other that have had this problem. It appears the it's due to the Maximum Transmission Unit (MTU=1505 in my case) is set too large for some sites to be able to handle . I understand that I can change the MTU value with the command: "netsh interface ipv4 set subinterface "Local Area Connection" mtu=1404 store=presistent" but I'm thinking this is my DSLs preset value and changing it would cause a connection problem. Any help would be appreciated.

Regards
 
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Okay. I guess what I was most worried about is not being able to reset it should I have a DSL connection problem. So I had a chat with the tech support for my DSL service and learned that the MTU can be changed but they recommended that I contact one of their "live agents" before proceeding; which I will do.

Thanks for your patients as I learn.
 
you can determine your ISP's largest MTU value by pinging a website and giving your system the packet size you want to use for the ping

in a dos prompt, execute the following command
ping -f -l [MTUSIZE] [yourISPgateway]

replace MTUSIZE with a number and yourISPgateway with the ip address of your ISP's gateway.
the largest value that you are able to use is your MTU
try these values for MTU
1500
1496
1492
1480
1472
1486
1464
1452

the largest one that successfully pings is your MTU. You don't have to change any system settings to do this.

Once you find out what it is, depending on your OS, you can change the appropriate settings.

Always backup current settings before you change them just in case you break something.
 

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