Guitarded9k is it possible for you to experiment around such as by-passing one of the devices? Try to narrow down where the issue is.

1. No. Just the ones you're aware of. XP, Sygate, Linksys, Voyager?, ISP? Is there a possibility there's an anti-spyware, etc. utility that needs allowance/permission in its settings for some programs to connect with in & out connections?

2. Java 1.4.2 or 1.5. I suppose with SP2 you could look at http://www.lvllord.de/?url=tools to increase you simultaneous connections. SP2 reduces them. Some XP updates also change your settings.

3. Possibly. These devices generally have NAT protection which is arguably a firewall. Linksys devices use UPnP which should allow programs with UPnP ability to communicate directly with them to request the Linksys device to open the appropriate ports. But I don't know about your device. Not all UPnP devices work properly with UPnP but Linksys is generally very reliable. If all fails, manual port forwarding if it's an option with the particular device. Same applies to the Voyager.

Is it possible to connect another way just for a trial. Do you have a backup dial up modem? That will also help to point to whether it's the devices at fault.

I thought I mentioned it but Plusnet has been known to filter individuals.

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