1 way IP control of the main Genie unit and standard DirecTV receivers has been rock solid for me using Total Control.

The IP control of genie clients is limited.  there are no discrete power commands and if you get into certain setup menus, the IP control locks up.  This happens with any control system.  There is an issue in the DirecTV software for Genie clients.

That said, if you are using the URC 2 way module to control DirecTV, then that is an issue.  I gave up on that module awhile ago because it keeps locking up.  Switch to the 1 way driver that I built and was posted on the URC Control Room, and you won't have any issues.