Windows Messenger Problems.

[JiNx]

Okay, I just installed a Linksys Router. BEFSR41 model. Now I can't connect with MSN Messenger. The router came with a firewall, is there a way to make Messenger work? I read about open up ports and stuff. Not too familiar with working with firewalls, first time. Does anybody have a solution (besides removing the router)?
Thanks.

[njovin]

You will have to setup the "Port forwarding" on your router, or setup the router to allow traffic through the ports you found out to your computers ip address.

Read your router's manual for details on how to do this.

[wil e coyote]

You should update your router's firm ware. Once this is complete, you should access the controls and enable UPnP. This is a universal plug and play option that will open the ports necessary for windows messenger.

However, my problem is that it works until the next time that I attempt to sign on. I don't think the ports are opening correctly. if anyone has encountered this issue, please advise

[JiNx]

Originally posted by wil e coyote
You should update your router's firm ware. Once this is complete, you should access the controls and enable UPnP. This is a universal plug and play option that will open the ports necessary for windows messenger.

However, my problem is that it works until the next time that I attempt to sign on. I don't think the ports are opening correctly. if anyone has encountered this issue, please advise

Hey, Wile E. What ports did you open up? I upgraded the firmware, and when I tried to open up port 5004 it didn't save it.

[wil e coyote]

the upnp will open the ports automatically... None have to be opened manually... I found the option to turn this on in my administrative options in my router...

There was alot of concern with regard to security and upnp; however, keeping the ports open all the time is much more risky...

This article mentions your router (I think)

http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/e...december24.asp


Once you get it working, let me know if it continues to work...

Thanks,

Scott

PS, if your going to open ports manually, you would have to open a range of ports. I.E. 5555 to 6666. I forget the range but it is described in the windows messenger help section. Again, this range is wide and it allows for a large gap in your firewall that stays open. This allows your computer to let other computers know that this gap is available for use... (one can see the danger in doing this)
UpNP is a much safer route to follow because the ports only open when needed...

[JiNx]

Scott,

I enabled the UPnP and it works fine, even after a restart. Messenger opens the ports when it's needed. That's all I had to do. I haven't tried the Video but, the audio works perfectly. Thanks for your help.

P.S. by the way, do you know how to get the WhiteBoard to work? I tried using it on the newest version of Windows Messenger, but all it does is wait, wait, wait for a connection. The person I was connecting to also used the same versions, but I it just won't connect.