How to allocate a set amount of Internet bandwidth on a shared router?

[ClassicRyu]

I have a Belkin ADSL2 + Wireless G Modem Router, and I'm currently sharing the Internet with it with another user.

The problem is the other user uses up so much of the bandwidth because he watches high-quality video streams all day, meaning the Internet on my end is running at a snail's pace. It's like he takes up 70% of the bandwidth and I only have 30%.

So is it possible to allocate a set amount of Internet bandwidth to each user on the router?

If possible how can it be done?

Any help will be most appreciated, thanks.

 

[xMarkie]

Yes, you have 2 options;

1. The router firmware admin software may have this functionality built in where you can limit access to internet/websites/limit bandwidth - you will have to make some changes to how the router identifies/authenticates each user to apply the restrictions. This does depend if the firmware has the functionality or not. If no there may be a custom firmware available for your router on the internet.

2. Setup a proxy server which controls access to the internet through software. Probably the most robust option as the software will have extensive options but you will need a separate pc to act as your gateway/proxy server to which you will both connect. It has to be running whenever you want to access the internet.

 

[ClassicRyu]

1. The router firmware admin software may have this functionality built in where you can limit access to internet/websites/limit bandwidth - you will have to make some changes to how the router identifies/authenticates each user to apply the restrictions. This does depend if the firmware has the functionality or not. If no there may be a custom firmware available for your router on the internet.

What would this function/feature be under? Is there a specific name for it?

I have looked at my router's settings and the only thing that comes close to what you describe is what's called 'Client IP Filters' under Firewall.

Would this be the right function? EDIT - actually I don't think it is.

 

[xMarkie]

QOS or Quality of Service your router may or may not have this available.

With QOS you can set traffic priority/restrict users. You could limit how much streaming traffic is allowed/bandwidth it can use etc...

My D-link DIR-615 has the option.

 

[ClassicRyu]

In that case, anyone recommend any wireless modem routers with QOS for under £40? It's a simple home use job so I don't need anything that spectacular.

 

[xMarkie]

What is the exact model number of your current router including any V or R numbers?

There might be a custom firmware available which gives you full/additional functionality. Might save you having to buy one - otherwise used adsl modem/routers are available for £5-£10

 

[ClassicRyu]

What is the exact model number of your current router including any V or R numbers?

There might be a custom firmware available which gives you full/additional functionality. Might save you having to buy one - otherwise used adsl modem/routers are available for £5-£10

It's a Belkin ADSL2 + Wireless G Modem Router, the model number is: F5D7632-4

 

[xMarkie]

It's a Belkin ADSL2 + Wireless G Modem Router, the model number is: F5D7632-4

looks like that model just isn't supported by the dd-wrt custom firmware.

For dd-wrt custom firmware have a look HERE for a list of supported devices.
For openwrt custom firmware have a look HERE for a list of supported devices.
Those custom firmwares give extended functionality and control and should give you good QOS options - especially openwrt.

Netgear/Dlink/Linksys units are well supported - its down to the chipset inside the unit.

Have a look in your local classifieds or on an auction site for used routers as they are cheap as chips - avoid ISP branded ones.

 

[bremen1874]

AFAIK both DD-WRT and OpenWrt target cable routers rather than ADSL.

 

[xMarkie]

AFAIK both DD-WRT and OpenWrt target cable routers rather than ADSL.

Who told you you that?

So does IP routing work differently for DSL than cable?

 

[bremen1874]

Nothing to do with routing. Just a lack of support for the modem side of things.

 

[xMarkie]

Nothing to do with routing. Just a lack of support for the modem side of things.

Irrelevant as the modem side of things is handled by the chipset in the device to which the software communicates using the relevant protocol. The only issue arises if the chipset manufacturer doesn't release the code for the interface.

If you look in the list of supported devices for each you will see a mix of ADSL/ADSL2/Cable devices - even some ISDN

EDIT: I got out my old Netgear DG834G ADSL2 wireless modem/router with DGTeam custom firmware on it and it connects to the internet perfectly with the bonus of the menu having loads of options on it