Problems connecting to the Internet after installing router

I have just got 3 pcs and networked them together with a netgear router now i cannot download windows update or connect to MSN. I have configured the internet options and firewalls to allow these sites but still no joy. I have also enabled the UPnP on everthing too.
Am getting a bit frustrated now as I dont know what else to try.
If any one can offer advice on this I would be most grateful!
Thanks,
Shelley

 

When your dsl modem is connected are the sync lights on? Try connecting the dsl modem to one computer and see if u get internet access. IF u dont get internet access then the problem is with the dsl modem. Resetting the router settings is another option

 

When you say MSN, do you mean the site or the messenger application? If the latter, I am pretty sure your problem is with your port settings on the firewall. MS updates and the MSN messager use different ports to those used by web pages. I can't remember the precise port number off the top of my head, but a web search should locate references for you.

 

Thank you for your replies.
All the lights are working on the router/modem and accessing the internet is no problem.
I have downloaded the MSN software but cannot access the website to set up a new account. I have searched for the port numbers and found TCP1863 (in and out are the same number I take it) for MSN but nothing for windows updates.
I have at present got the windows and mcafee firewalls running but i believe there is also a double firewall in the router (NETGEAR DG834T) so do you think i will need to configure them all?
Not sure I really need so many firewalls, I worry that they may interfere with each other - if you see what i mean! What are your thoughts on this?
Thanks again,
Shelley

 

Netgear I believe has the same problem as SMC. If the routers firewall is on then you will get intermittant connection. Most of the time as long as you have NAT the firewall in the router is not needed.

 

Thanks, but i dont know how to turn off the firewall in the router.
I think it must be the router that is not allowing the microsoft updates as i have tried when i have windows and mcafee firewalls and antivirus all disabled and it still will not allow the updates.
I am not sure how to change the settings on the router so any advice would be grateful
Thanks again
Shelley

 

Take Router out of the mix ...
Shut computer off, disconnect Ethernet cable end from your computer NIC.
Go to modem, follow cable from modem TO router, disconnect this cable end from router, reinsert same cable end into NIC on computer.
Re-start computer. If problem continues, not caused by router.

 

Turn these back on before following Dennis L's advice.

Don't connect to the internet without a firewall enabled!

 

Ok, thanks.

 

Problem solved!! Have set the MTU to 1400 for AOL and now everything works great.
Thanks for all the help.

Shelley