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How to Optimize Your Windows 95 / 98 / Me Registry for Broadband

Why Optimize Your Registry for Broadband?

The importance of optimizing your registry for broadband lies in the fact that Windows operating systems (OS) 95, 98 and Me were originally configured to deal with the transfer of data over a local area network. This configuration is set at a slightly higher transfer rate than is optimal for fully utilizing the potential of your broadband connection. By changing the configuration to optimal levels for your broadband you can achieve higher performance from your connection.

Understanding Data Flow

Two terms to know when configuring your registry are maximum transmission unit (MTU) and maximum segment size (MSS). MTU refers to the largest amount of data that can be transferred at a time over a network. While MSS is how much data is actually sent at a time. The MSS amount is slightly smaller than the MTU to account for data assignment and other information. These are the values in your registry which need to be adjusted to optimize your broadband.

Adjusting Your Broadband Registry

In order to alter your OS registry configuration to use your broadband most efficiently, there are a few things to keep in mind. First get to your registry editor, which can be accessed by typing “regedit” into your Run command prompt. Then you must locate the proper place to adjust your MTU and MSU values. Normally, your operating system’s MTU value will be set at 1500 bytes, which is what needs to be changed. There are two broadband types to consider when adjusting your settings for peak performance.

  • Cable or Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) Broadband
    For this type of broadband the MTU setting is fine at 1500 bytes but the MSS setting should equal 1460 bytes for best performance.

  • Broadband with Point-to-Point Protocol over Ethernet (PPPoE)
    This type of broadband is utilized by some DSL providers, accordingly the MTU setting should equal 1492 bytes and the MSS setting should equal 1452 bytes.

For detailed step-by-step information on optimizing your Windows 95, 98 or Me registry please visit these links: winguides and speedguides.

Patches for Your Broadband Registry

Altering your registry configuration is not really an activity for those who aren’t comfortable with customizing their Windows OS. For those of you who aren’t at ease delving into the depths of your computer, but still want to optimize your broadband speed, there is hope. There are sites available out there that have patches – such as tweaking PPPoE connections – where you can download files that automatically optimize your broadband. To find a variety of them, look for “Windows registry patches” in your search engine of choice. Adjusting your registry can be risky and possibly screw up your system – so whether you’re making the adjustments yourself or downloading a patch, always export a backup file of the original settings before making any changes.