1. OS version? Windows XP
2. What firewalls you have? Windows and NOD32 anti-virus
3. How much ram? 1Gb
4. Hard Disk space available? 220Gb
5. Connection type? (eg: dialup, broadband, cable, etc.) Satellite Broadband
6. Modem & router brand name & model numbers? SkyEdge Modem, Realtek RTL8139 Family PCI Ethernet
7. Where are you trying to connect from (home, school, work, etc.)? Home
8. What version of LimeWire (LW) & Java do you have? (Go to LW's menu Help>About LW...) Will show both LW & Java version. LW4.12.11 Java 1.5.0_12
9. Who is your ISP provider (Internet Service Provider)? Bordernet (Australia)
10. Do this simple test for us. Using your browser go here: http://www3.limewire.com:6346/ The page should say 'Your test worked!'. What happens when you go there? Your Test Worked
11. Are you sharing the connection with other computers or p2p sharing programs? If yes, please give details of set up. No
12. Is this a your 1st try at LW or is this a new problem with an experienced user. LWhad been working fine, about 1 month ago it stopped connecting with a brick wall and only 1 bar
13. Do you see a brick wall in front of the blue world icon at the bottom of LW's interface? Yes

I have tried Mickjapa's suggestion - unistalling using search to find all the extra bits, removing them, removing Java and then reinstalling (offline)Java and reinstalling LW, with numerous reboots in between, all to no avail. It is driving me batty! If anyone can help I would be most grateful.

Thanks

Its not good to run two firewalls at the same time, they can conflict with each other,
so turn one off,
How to use Manual Port forward

Universal Plug and Play may not be working properly Due to this update. "Security Update for Windows XP (KB931261)"
Removing this update is not Recommended & could make your computer vulnerable to attack.
For more info on this update, click on this blue link.
Microsoft Security Bulletin MS07-019: Vulnerability in Universal Plug and Play Could Allow Remote Code Execution (931261)

If this update is installed on your computer & UPnP is in use by Limewire,
Try switching to Manual Port forward using port numbers between 45000 To 65000
Both Manual Port forward No, & listening port should be set at the same number
In LimeWire, GO to Tools/Options/Advanced/Firewall Config & use Manual Port forward.

If you are using a router to connect, that will also need configuring.
Find your router listed here, Use this blue link. & dont forget to create a static IP first, & click apply after changing each setting.
PortForward.com - Free Help Setting up Your Router or Firewall
Your Servant,
Peace.

__________________
mickjapa108

Thanks heaps for your reply. I have made the changes to the port numbers and it seems to be working OK. I made some changes suggested by birdy on the weekend and they worked for a while, but then it went back to the same prob's, so hopefully this stays fixed

We have our fingers crossed for you.
Peace,

__________________
mickjapa108