Any download I do has more than 8 hosts available (in the "#" column, right?) but they always only use "downloading from 8 hosts" or less. If there are 53 hosts available how come I can't use them all?

By the way if there are any newbie tips you'd like to give me I would appreciate them. Thanks.

It all really depends on whos online at the time you are. You can always try to adjust your sources in your Limewire settings under options, for tips you can read Lord of the rings sticky notes that are posted here on this forum. A hundred people can have said file, but, that doesnt mean that a hundred people are online at the sametime you are and it also depends on your own speed and bandwidth restrictions too. Many factors makeup a open nework. We all have to rely on each other for downloads and uploads thats why its important to share.