I am still using the Toshiba PCX 1100 modem I started with over 3 years ago.
A while back I started having connection problems with Counter-Strike/Steam servers. Typically I play the game for a spell before getting the "WARNING: Connection Problem" message, often followed by a time-out and loss of connection. Several seconds later I am able to "see" the server again and reconnect. Usually the problem returns but the intervals are unpredictable. Sometimes I can play for long periods without trouble, sometimes the problem is frequent.
--Other users of these servers do not have this problem.
--There are no recent changes to my system that could account for the problem.
--My ISP is rated at 3 Mbits; I get 2.5 Mbits in speed tests.
I have done trace-routes to the server and reported the problem to my ISP (Comcast). Trace-route shows little trouble and the ISP reports no known equipment problems in their system.
1) Could the cable modem be at fault?
2) Would a newer modem perform better than the current modem (even if it doesn't solve this problem)?
3) Which of the current crop of modems available is the best (for use with Comcast)?
4) When connecting a new modem is it simply plug-n-play or does it have to be registered with ISP?
[cable] Should I get a new cable modem?
Since your cable modem is at least 3 years old my question is how old are the lines running to your house. If you live in an area where the lines are arial there is a good chance you have squirrel chew. Squirrel chew is the result of squirrels chewing on your cables because they get in the way of their destination so they try to chew the lines down. OR maybe their hungry and the cables taste good. IF your wires are underground then moles may chew on them. This chewing causes degredation of the line to the house hence water gets in and causes intermittant issues like you described. If the lines are brand new then maybe its time for a new modem. Any broadband cable modem should work with your comcast ISP and you may need to register the new modem with them. Its as simple as calling them up and letting them know the new serial #.
Let us know what you find.
CBUM
Let us know what you find.
CBUM
The original cable was run to the house within 10 years of the Internet installation (3.3 years ago) but I think the lines were upgraded or replaced within the last 3 years. Prolly not the squirelll chew problem unless it is farther down the lline from our house.
I will continue to try and get to the bottom of this issue, replacing the modem as a last resort, and report the solution when it is found.
I will continue to try and get to the bottom of this issue, replacing the modem as a last resort, and report the solution when it is found.
Having ruled out most other possibilities I went ahead and bought a new Motorola SurfBoard SB5100. It appears the new modem has solved the problems since I have enjoyed many long gaming sessions over the last couple of weeks without a single interruption in the connection.
Install was a simple matter of calling tech and giving them the new modem's MAC address, about 5 minutes once I got through to tech support. I am moving to a new apartment (in Adelphia territory) next week and the new SB5100 is coming with me. The ex-wife will have to get by with the old Toshiba
I hope Adelphia performance is as good as Comcast has been for me, better would be even better 
Install was a simple matter of calling tech and giving them the new modem's MAC address, about 5 minutes once I got through to tech support. I am moving to a new apartment (in Adelphia territory) next week and the new SB5100 is coming with me. The ex-wife will have to get by with the old Toshiba
I hope Adelphia performance is as good as Comcast has been for me, better would be even better 
grade