the problem existed before i intalled the router two days ago, i.e. the router didn't worsen the problem. that's why my ignorant lay-person's guess is that there's something in my firewall or other config that's the problem. (and - i don't know how to disable the router firewall - netgear walked me through installation...)

sadly, i have no clue where to find the MRU setting - because i don't know what it is.

i know how hard it is when clueless people ask for help ...

jill