When I first start limewire i will have a download speed of 40-60 kb/sec from 7 or 8 hosts for each file that is being downloaded. However, after 15 or 20 minutes the download speed will slow to 10-15 kb/sec, still from 7 or 8 hosts. Why is this slowdown happening?

I don't have a firewall, although i have gotten an error message saying that I either have a firewall or have lost my internet connection. If there was a firewall in my computer I would not be able to download at all, right? I still am able to get 10-15 kb/sec.

I'm running Windows 98 with a cable modem that allows up to 5 megs/sec for downloads.

Thanks in advance for any help;
Christine