Logged out, over and over again...

I am constantly getting disconnected from Second Life. I configure my NETGEAR router to allow all the require TCP and UDP ports. I don't know how I could fix this problem. Basically, I am on Second Life for about 5-10 minutes before I get disconnected. It tells me "You have been logged out" "The system has logged you out". Please, is there anything I can do to stop this from happening?

Ash -

I feel your pain; my Linksys Router was having this same behavior when I first joined.

Step 1) Are you behind any OTHER routers? My problem was partly because there was a router in my end of the house; and then another one just up-stream of the cable-modem. The two were in conflict about how to handle some of the UDP traffic. If you *are* in a situation with multiple routers, I suggest turning one into a simple hub (most routers have a setting for this that disables all Routing, NAT, DHCP, etc).

Step 2) If this is the only router between you and your Broadband connection, then go to the Netgear website and make sure you have the latest firmware! If needed, download and follow their instructions on how to upgrade the firmware.

Step 3) Try disabling all of your software firewalls, anti-spam, & internet-security type programs. See if it solves the issue. If it does, start turning them on 1 at a time, until you find the one that causes the problem. We can then help you work around it...

SL uses some advanced UDP stuff that - even though it meets certain standard specs - seems to cause problems with some brands and models of routers. Router companies are improving their firmware all the time, though... so there's hope that a newer version of the firmware will fix your problem.

Good luck!

Take care,

--Noel "HB" Wade
(Tread Whiplash)