I gave the Port number change a go but unfortunately it made no difference. I understand why Tscali may be the cause because of their policies, but I now find that I cannot leave LImewire on overnight as I used to, when I go to bed it is working well and downloading & when I return to it, the "starting connection" problem is back - even at 7am in the morning!! Not only have any downloads not progresses much further but of course no one would be able to download from me. Overnight used to be the best chance of completing a large download or torrent, but not any more. Any other suggestions would be welcome, although I gather that if it is Tiscali responsible, there is not much that can be done.