OK you need to do a number of things.

1. Configure both your firewalls for XP & McAfee here: http://www.limewire.com/english/content/firewalls.shtml

2. Update your Java: Java 1.4.2 (click on link)

3. Force ip within LW: Force IP instructions & sample image

4. Forward a port on your cable modem: Motorolla SB5100: Click on this link for instructions (this is not your exact model but the instrucitons will be identical. Use Port 6346 Don't forget to set up a static IP (instructions are there) & read them carefully.

5. After this things should be a-ok

Here's some hints on optimising LW: A well set-up LW can start to automatically continue its dwnlding after it's settled down perhaps 2 out of 3 times you open LW. Optimising LW & Maximising Uplds & Dwnlds A (1st post only) & also Part B which is even better & last & least are search & dwnld hints. The latter one I've been thinking about re-writing for some time. That's just for playing it safe. eg- I show all speeds & qualities.