You shouldn't be unprotected without firewalls. You should configure them to allow LW access instead. See instructions here: http://www.limewire.com/english/content/firewalls.shtml

Update your Java: Java 1.5 (take the JRE)

What brand & model no. of modem & router do you use? Sure you can downld but most likely not upload. You 'may' need to open a port for LW.

Depending on how many incomplete & shared files you have, LW can take some time to load & settle down properly. It's best to allow it time to do this before doing anything with LW.

Don't use the Resume/Find Sources button on many (if any) files. Doing so can result in your files queueing for much much longer. It may also affect LW's connection quality. It may also slow LW down & use up too much of it's resources. It will tie LW up & make it difficult for it too operate normally.

The best & most effective technique is to search for your topic again. This will find new/fresh sources. This should enliven your downlds. What will also help with downlds is if you are uploading. It can enable you to find sources more easily & get better search & downld results.

Some hints: 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.