Web pages loading SLOW unless connected thru VPN

[sdcindy]

I have a very frustrating problem. I have a cable connection that consistently speed tests at around 6000 Kbps and yet I have tons of problems loading web pages. They load so slow that they often time out. This happens on both Internet Explorer 6.0.2900 and Firefox 1.5.0.7. I have cleared the history and cookies on both browers many times and it doesn't help. Both my laptop and my desktop are connected through a Linksys router and both have the same web page loading problem.
Here is the weird thing though - if I connect my laptop through my work VPN, and then open my broswer while logged into VPN, the web pages load fast with no problem. I am still using the same connection with the only difference is that I logged into VPN before I opened the web page. If I disconnect from VPN, I am back to not being able to load web pages.
Also, just for kicks I brought my work computer home, connected it to my router and could not load web pages. Then I logged into to VPN and had no problem with web page loading anymore.
All my computers are using Windows XP. I have Roadrunner Cable 6000 Kbps and a Linksys Wireless Access Point Router (2.4 GHz) with 4-Port switch. My computers are directly connected to the router without using the Wireless.
Can someone help me? I can't figure this out.

Thanks,

[z1p]

What is your MTU set to? See this post (http://www.cybertechhelp.com/forums/showpost.php?p=722772&postcount=4) for info on setting it.

BTW - make sure you determine you max MTU through the VPN. VPNs add packet overhead which force the MTU to be lower than it would be if you weren't going through the VPN.

[sdcindy]

Thanks. I changed the MTU settings. Also, someone else suggested that I create static DNS settings on my router using www.opendns.com which made a big difference. Things seem to be working fine now.:D