Networking Blues Got Me Down

[pagemonkey]

I'm at a loss, and I'm really hoping someone here will see something obvious (or not-so-obvious) I missed and I can get this cleared up.

In setting up Tivo, I ran an ethernet cable from my U.S. Robotics router (which is also used to connect a P.C. and Mac to the internet via cable modem, and to network said computers); the Tivo found the network and got itself an I.P. address from DHCP. But, when I tell it to connect, it stops on the second step and says "Configuring ..." for a few minutes before reporting an error.

Tivo support suggested there was something in the router preventing Tivo from communicating, but I've no clue what it could be. The router is being used in its default configuration - I never changed a thing. The router documentation says it's equipped with two types of firewalls - NAT and TCP/IP port inspections.

So the question is - can either of those types of firewall, in their default configuration, cause this problem? And, if so, the larger question is - how do I fix it?

I'm not a computer dummy, but I'm no expert, either. I was able to set up a home network between a P.C. and a Mac with no problem, but this is just leaving me frustrated. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

[pagemonkey]

Well, a little update for anyone who's reading this - I was sitting here after the initial post, still puzzling over everything, and I decided to try a little experiment.

I figured since the Tivo was recognizing the network itself, I'd download the Tivo media center desktop and see what happened.

Short version: It worked! I can get music and photos from my computer to my Tivo, which is what I wanted to do with the network in the first place.

So, at this point, I'm perfectly content to get programming info over the phone and use the network as just a network. I'd still be interested in hearing any ideas for fixing the overall issue, but I am blue no more.

Thanks for reading.

[CuriousMark]

But, when I tell it to connect, it stops on the second step and says "Configuring ..." for a few minutes before reporting an error.

If your router has a parental controls proxy server built into it, you may need to turn it off or set an exception for the TiVo.

There have also been reports that VPN passthrough or gamer support settings in the router could possible cause problems. Try disabling them as a test, you can always turn them back on if you prefer.

Sometimes setting a lower MTU value can help with this error, try going from 1500 to 1460 or 1420.

If your ISP or your Cable (or DSL) modem has a proxy server or packet fragment issues, it can cause this problem. A call to their tech support might be useful.

In the past people experiencing this problem occasionally got good results when they contacted their ISP and found the ISP had inadvertently misconfigured their network. Cable companies may not be as helpful as DSL companies if they have their own DVR to push though.

Mark

[ratell]

It sounds like your router is blocking the port the tivo needs. To test it you can try disabling the routers firewall and see if the tivo can connect then.

A quick search turned up this advice:
I have my TiVo behind a very restrictive firewall. According to my packet sniffer the TiVo needs outbound TCP 80, UDP/TCP 37, and TCP 8080. Are there any other port(s) that it needs?

(I do know that TCP/UDP 2190 is used by HMO, but that's not what I'm asking for.)

Try opening those ports on your router and see if it works.

Rob

[Night Hawk]

I have been having networking problems ever since 2.2 upgrade I have to jump through all kind of hoops each time I want to access my computer on the network.
I have to enable Tivo desktop new each time re-enter media key each time and assign a sever in music and photos just to establish a link .I have also had it up to here trying to get any help from those idiot no minds At Tivo support. Their standard answer for your problem is a firewall issue either software or hardware, These are canned responses with no constructive suggestions for help ie... delete and re download Tivo desk top reinstall ect ect... once I have taken the steps outlined I can see photos on server I can listen to mp3s on server I can play movies and programs stored on server what I can not do and it is driving me nuts is transfer new programing to the server. since three of the four functions work there logically is no interference from the network I have opened all ports require and disabled or made exceptions in all firewalls. Anybody with any helpful suggestions??? They will be greatly appreciated. Thank you