i'm really not an expert in these matters but i've tried a few of the tips regarding connection to limewire and............nothing happens.
what is supposed to happen?
i don't want to change too many settings in my computer because i won't be able to get them back. i can livewithout limewire but i'd quite like to have it.
i've gone to my internet connections and the firewall and done what a few people suggested but still nothing happens. should i give up? i'm on xp.

For XP you should configure your XP & any other firewalls you have here: http://www.limewire.com/english/content/firewalls.shtml
Asso see this: Fixes for Limewire

Give LW some time to connect. It can take some time depending on how many shared & incomplete files you have. Be patient & even wait up to an hour before doing anything.