router lockups

[Rocketmech]

Been having a some trouble lately with router lockups just about every day that a power cycles clears. I've had a lot of changes over the last month with my equipment , some of it trying to resolve the problem. I've been thru 3 routers and 1 cable modem , and replaced some RJ45 connectors. Currently I suspect the new Linksys WRT54G or a new pc , MSI Neo2 Platinum NF3 250 . Seems the router crashes usually when my son is gaming on his new pc . I've also notice some slow downs when I'm surfing on another at the same time. I've gone over every setting I believe and can't seem to figure whats causing the crashes. Before I call Linksys I thought I'd ask here first for some ideas.

Surfboard modem
Linksys WRT54G , wireless disabled .
XP Pro SP2 on 3 pc's using ob nic's
All settings are typical auto dhcp . Some applications are port forwarded.

Forgot to mention, theres a switch beltween the MSI pc and the router. I haven't tried bypassing it yet. I guess that should 1st on my list.

[BipolarBill]

Um - firmware update?

[Sterling_Aug]

I've been having the same problems lately with my Linksys BEFw11S4 router.

Several times a day it will require a power cycle to clear and get working again. I have already gooten the latest firmware last May when it came out and I checked for a newer version but no luck.

I ordered a DLink DWL-923 kit last night. I hope it helps.

[Rocketmech]

Well there is an update , but it claims its for the newer ver. 3 hardware and some additional help files , I have the 2.2 ver. I'm going to bypass the switch tonite. Perhaps the 2 cannot work together or whatever. I will then try the new firmware in case it matters. Then maybe opt for another router...
Any possiblity the new pc's ob nic's being Gb Lan would be causing instability ? I have tried both with no improvement , but haven't played with any settings. The defaults look fine to me.

[bushmaster]

Have had similar problems with a linksys after line current troubles. Had to frequently re-boot router to clear it up. Upgraded firmware and had same problem. Replaced router and troubles gone.
First time it was a BEFSR41, second time it was a WRT54G. Now using WRT54GS since it appeared on market and no more troubles.

[Rocketmech]

Update ...
Firmware upgrade did not help. Nor did bypassing the switch , or making some config. changes on the MSI's nic.

There was a city wide power outage awhile back in the beginning of the problems that may have caused the 1st router , Linksys BEFSR41, to fail . I replaced it with a Netgear , then replaced it with the WRT54G , then replaced the modem. I've changed out some cable connections , but have not opted to replace any cable yet since I have it running thru the walls on 2 levels.
Perhaps I need to check my circuit from the power strip back to the panel before I add another router.

[bushmaster]

Brownouts can cause more damage than blackouts on certain equipment. UPS baby.