Check that your router or modem is forwarding the port LimeWire is using.
PortForward.com - Free Help Setting up Your Router or Firewall

To block the scripts and ads that sometimes pop up, go to the internet options control panel,
switch to the Security tab and add *.bearshare.com and *.fastclick.net to the Restricted Sites zone.
Blocking Fastclick alone will stop a lot of ads on a lot of sites.

Thanks Aaron. It wasn't a problem with the router. It seems I have gremlins in my system. One day all is working fine and the next it's not.
The firewall has disappeared from Limewire. I have no idea why. I must admit that I do push a great many buttons and go places on my computer I probably shouldn't, but whatever I did, it worked. Thanks again for your continued assistance.
itsbrkn