There's no need to turn your Firewall off. You should have it on for your own protection. What you need to do is configure it so it allows LW full access (advisable not to have 2 active firewalls b/c they can interfere with each other); config instructions: Firewall configuration instructions

3 green bars is not too bad! At least you're connected.
* After opening LW wait 10 to 20 mins before using. Let it settle down 1st.

Can you give us a total desciption of your set up:
1. OS version? (eg: Windows 98)
2. What firewalls you have?
3. How much ram?
4. Hard Disk space available?
5. Connection type? (eg: dialup, broadband, cable, etc.)
6. Modem & router brand name & model numbers?
7. Where are you trying to connect from (home, school, work, etc.)?
8. What version of Limewire (LW) & Java do you have? (Go to LW's menu Help>About LW...) Will show both LW & Java version.
9. Who is your isp provider?
10. Is this a your 1st try at LW or is this a new problem with an experienced user.