Don't panic about the firewall/connection thing until later
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At least your LW opens now.
Did the Java update fix your lag issues?
You don't have to turn your firewall off. Just make sure that you're only using 1 (remember XP has it's own) & that it's configured properly. Check out the sticky below...it has heaps of info & fixes for connection/firewall problems.
Connection problems? Check here first!
If you're still stuck, tell us your details
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