Unless you're super-paranoid, OSX users don't really need a firewall. I have mine disabled most of the time. Can you please answer the following questions: http://www.gnutellaforums.com/showpo...91&postcount=2 (yes I know you've already detailed some answers but we need to know the whole story. Thanks!) Oh & also try the bottom 2 question tests about performance which includes the magnet link. It will be very interesting to find out what happens.