Linux TCP Optimizer Suite

A comprehensive Python-based suite for analyzing, benchmarking, and dynamically optimizing network performance on Linux systems.

This tool goes beyond simple sysctl tuning by incorporating advanced bufferbloat analysis, NIC driver-level tuning, and an optional real-time daemon that adapts your network settings based on your current activity.

Key Features

• Advanced Benchmarking: Measures not only download/upload speed but also latency under load to accurately diagnose and quantify bufferbloat. Requires speedtest-cli to be installed (included in requirements.txt).
• Multi-Layer Tuning: Optimizes performance at both the kernel level (sysctl) and the NIC driver level (ethtool ring buffers).
• Profile-Based System: Comes with pre-defined profiles for different use cases (e.g., Gaming, High-Speed Fiber, Streaming) that are easily customizable.
• Real-time Adaptive Daemon: An optional systemd service that runs in the background, automatically switching to the best network profile based on the applications you are running (e.g., applies the 'Gaming' profile when Steam is launched).
• Interactive TUI: A user-friendly Terminal User Interface for easy manual benchmarking, profile application, and daemon management.
• Safe & Reversible: All changes are easily revertible to the original system state.

Installation

This project requires Python 3.8 or higher.

1. Clone the repository:

   https://github.com/rukaachan/tcp-optimizer
   cd tcp-optimizer

2. Install dependencies:

   # It is recommended to do this inside a Python virtual environment
   python3 -m pip install -r requirements.txt

Uninstallation

To completely remove the tcp-optimizer service and its associated files, run the uninstall.sh script with root privileges:

sudo ./uninstall.sh

This will stop and disable the systemd service, remove the service file, and delete any backup or configuration files created by the optimizer.

Testing

To run the automated tests, first ensure you have installed the development dependencies:

python3 -m pip install -r requirements.txt

Then, navigate to the project root and run pytest:

pytest

This will execute all tests in the tests/ directory, verifying the core functionality of the utility modules.

Usage

This suite can be used in two modes: Manual Mode (via the TUI) or Automated Mode (via the daemon).

Manual Mode (TUI)

For one-time analysis, benchmarking, and profile application, run the main script with root privileges.

sudo python3 main.py

This will launch the Terminal User Interface with the following options:

• Analyze & Apply Manually: Runs a full benchmark and recommends the best profile based on your connection's speed and bufferbloat.
• Apply Profile & Benchmark: Manually choose a profile to apply and see a detailed before-and-after comparison report.
• Manage Real-time Daemon: Control the automated daemon (see below).
• Revert All Settings: Safely restores your system's original network settings.

Automated Mode (Real-time Daemon)

For a "set it and forget it" experience, you can enable the systemd service to have the daemon manage your profiles automatically.

1. Run the Installer:

The provided install.sh script handles the service installation automatically. It will configure the necessary paths and move the service file to the correct location.

# Run the installer with root privileges
sudo ./install.sh

2. Manage the Service:

You can now manage the daemon using standard systemctl commands or through the Manage Real-time Daemon menu in the TUI.

• Enable and Start:

  sudo systemctl enable --now tcp-optimizer.service

• Check Status:

  sudo systemctl status tcp-optimizer.service

• Stop and Disable:

  sudo systemctl disable --now tcp-optimizer.service

Configuration

The behavior of the optimizer is controlled by the profiles.json file.

• profiles:

  • Define the sysctl kernel parameters for each profile.
  • Add ethtool_settings to profiles to control NIC ring buffers. Setting "rx": "max" will intelligently use the maximum value supported by your hardware.

• daemon_config:

  • check_interval: How often (in seconds) the daemon checks for running processes.
  • profile_triggers: Modify this dictionary to customize which running applications will trigger a specific profile. You can add the process names of your favorite games or applications.

Conclusion

This suite provides a powerful set of tools for anyone looking to get the most out of their network connection on Linux. Whether through manual fine-tuning or automated real-time adjustments, you can achieve a faster and more responsive network experience.