Limewire disconnects, along with my internet connection
 

I'm running OS 9.2 on an imac dv graphite. I have a usb to ethernet adaptor because my ethernet was toasted by lightning. My internet connection works fine alone. I can connect to Limewire, and can often download a few files successfully before it abruptly shows 0kb being downloaded and it goes from "excellent" to "disconnected" in the middle of downloading files. It never reconnects. So I quit the program, and if it doesn't crash the whole system, I notice that somehow, my internet explorer cannot connect, even though my modem lights are showing that I'm connected. This happens every time. I can restart my computer and it will usually work again, for about 5 minutes, and the cycle continues. Can anyone give me a clue or suggestion as to what is going on?