Many of you out there probably use your desktop as a “server” to share files, music, movies, etc. to other computers on your network. I’ve noticed in small offices this type of setup is common since they don’t require the services of a full server.

One problem you run into, however, is Windows desktop OS’s limit the maximum number of connections allowed at one time. While this limitation cannot be changed, you can change the time a connection remains “active” after no activity. The procedure simply involves changing a network setting per this Microsoft KB. Changing the value to a lower number than the default 15 minutes will allow you to get the most out of your connections for heavier use.