OK, I don't think I will be able to help to much with the firewall as I need the modem/router details..
But with what you are currently experiencing I'd say it's because of fake hosts...
Go to your connections Tab in limewire, if it's not showing up go to Veiw > Show/Hide and make sure the connection tab has a tick next to it...
Then click on the Hosts and remove them and let Limewire search for some more...
If the same hosts keep appearing, disconnect limewire for 5 to 10 mins and then re-connect, until you get a complete new set...
