I'm running Windows XP Professional and I seem to have a problem getting out from behind the firewall when I run Limewire. In Control Panel>Windows Firewall>Exceptions, Limewire has been added and checked. This has no effect in Limewire. The firewall remains. This method worked fine until a few days ago. I downloaded the Beta version of BearShare. I got a copy of the startup program from an individual, who shall remain nameless. The next thing I noticed was when I ran BearShare I got a lot popup windows telling me something about writing scripts. I have no idea what this means or whether it had an effect on my operating system. I've run a system diagnostic and a program called PC Angel, which resets all the factory settings. But if anyone has any thoughts or suggestions to remove the firewall from Limewire I'd be very interested in hearing them.
Thanks
itsbrkn

Check that your router or modem is forwarding the port LimeWire is using.
PortForward.com - Free Help Setting up Your Router or Firewall

To block the scripts and ads that sometimes pop up, go to the internet options control panel,
switch to the Security tab and add *.bearshare.com and *.fastclick.net to the Restricted Sites zone.
Blocking Fastclick alone will stop a lot of ads on a lot of sites.

Thanks Aaron. It wasn't a problem with the router. It seems I have gremlins in my system. One day all is working fine and the next it's not.
The firewall has disappeared from Limewire. I have no idea why. I must admit that I do push a great many buttons and go places on my computer I probably shouldn't, but whatever I did, it worked. Thanks again for your continued assistance.
itsbrkn