Since posting my problem, I've tried removing a Gigabit switch from between my router and PC, changed the Ethernet cable from the router to the PC, downloaded files to a different hard drive and I updated my LAN driver. None of this has helped. I've downloaded the same large file repeatedly and run it through an MD5 checksum algorithm, which has shown the file to be different nearly every time (the only time that it's consistent across downloads is when it's correct).
On Monday night, I completely lost service again. On Tuesday morning, I called Verizon (from my office). The tech was able to see that the IP had been dropped and the ONT was reporting that there appeared to be a bad cable. The tech told me to disconnect and reconnect the coax from the router when I got home, in case it was loose, and told me that, if that didn't help, they would send someone out to look at the problem. Well, it didn't work and now I have a repair appointment for Monday morning.
Today, I'm borrowing a laptop from work and I'll try downloading the same large file, using the laptop & Wifi to prove that the problem isn't with my PC or internal wiring (or maybe prove that it is with my PC or internal wiring). If it is my problem, I'll cancel the service call.
When the repair guy comes, I'll ask him about the possibilty of replacing the coax with Ethernet (or if that will even help).
