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I have a satellite-connected modem for internet access: a (wifi+wire) router is connected to this, and provides access to a LAN with several Macs, 2 windows boxes, and an Ubuntu machine. Most connections are via wifi. One of the Macs on the network is a Mac Pro which has two NICs, only one of which is being used.

I would like to monitor download volume from the internet: ie what contributes to my download cap from my ISP. What's the best way of doing this?

Regards, David

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The most accurate way would probably be to get a router that supports bandwidth monitoring - You can also (potentially) use DD-WRT firmware on your existing router which allows you to monitor the bandwidth being used (along with a host of other enhanced features).

You can also monitor usage using software on your computers, but inadequacies are likely to develop as it doesn't necessarily account for all traffic - particularly if you or a friend adds another machine/mobile device/tablet/etc to the network temporarily.

Here is (1) a list of routers supported by DD-WRT (2) a guide on installing DD-WRT on your router and (3) here is a guide on enabling bandwidth monitoring.

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My router supports bandwidth monitoring, but - like the software I've looked at - it appears that all traffic, including local LAN traffic, would be included. Does the DD-WRT firmware support the differentiation? – David Coldrick Apr 1 '11 at 7:24
Yes, it does differentiate – Alex Miller Apr 2 '11 at 2:17

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