Gator.5729

That actually is the exact definition of "not" a server side issue. You are all connected to the same server and on the same map at the same time. If it would have been a server issue it would have affected everyone in the map, not just 5 people. What you saw was a problem with a node on those players route to the server. Regardless of where they are located each ISP uses different nodes based on their contracts with providers across the globe. As you get closer to the actual server location more people share the same nodes, people who cross oceans usually share the same nodes as well.

Anet is not content to ignore the problem. You used a 3rd party program to fix your connection problem. Its not their connection problem, they can only assist you in identifying the problem if you submit a support ticket. We as players connect to Anet, our ISP controls the path the connection takes to get to the server. The problem everyone is having is with the nodes between your computer and Anet, this is our problem. Until people start realizing this and take the right steps to identify the problem and fix it, the problems will continue. Download and run pingplotter, it will show you exactly where the problem is. Then take the pingplotter information and contact your ISP. You may have to go through multiple tiers of tech support but they are the only ones that can fix it. There are many reason why a node maybe having issues, power outages, equipment damage, high usage or maybe they just have a crappy infrastructure. People like yourself have found VPN's and other 3rd party software that adjusts your routing to avoid the problem area, it may work for some people others it may not.A network problem with Anet would affect every single player not just some. They are very fast at fixing and addressing that when it happens.