Gigabit latency - Fast transfers TO server... slow transfer FROM server

We have a windows server 2000 machine in which we installed a gigabit NIC. We have also installed 3 gigabit switches, though, all the wiring remains cat5. The problem that we are experiencing is that network file transfers to the server are just fine. However, when we transfer the files back to any client on the network, the transfer is slow--much slower than 100mbs. I haven't done any actual speed tests, but it seems to be closer to 10mbs rather than 100mbs (clients don't have gigabit NICs, so gigabit speeds are obviously not expected.

Transfers between client workstations are also fine. The issue is only FROM the server.

Does anyone have any ideas why this is and what I can do to fix it?

Keith

 

I would be looking hard at the cable segment from the Server to the switch!

 

The switches are right above the server. Are you suggesting that maybe the cable is bad?

Keith

 

Yes!

 

Change the patch cable & try using Cat 6 cable.

 

If it is a dodgy cable it would more than likely effect speeds both in both directions? Surely not just retrieving information? Though weird things do happen..

Do any of the client machines (or the server) have some sort of "on access" scanner that may be scanning files that are being read?

Would kind of switches are they? I would be looking at what speed the ports are connected also.

 

Who is initiating the transfer back to the client? Are you on the client machine pulling a file or are you on the server pushing it to a share on the PC? Keep in mind that a desktop is optimized for user perceived speed, whereas the server puts throughput, whether network or storage access, up top. I highly doubt it is a cabling problem, as you stated the transferring between PCs is fine. I do like psuedo's post about scanners. I have seen network apps come to a crawl because someone forgot to exclude them from realtime virus scans.