OE6 error code 0x800CCC0E every day

For the last couple months now, I have been getting the error code 0x800CCC0E (The connection to the server has failed), when I check my email.

Also, it doesn't do it every time, it's hit and miss. It happens daily, but not every single time. And usually, when I close the error message window, and hit send/receive, it retrieves my email, or just says no new messages. Sometimes it will hang a second time, and get the same error message.

I've called AT&T a couple times, and they are adamant that it's nothing with my connection. Also, when it's hung up on "connecting" I can open up IE just fine, so I'm able to go right to my homepage and do whatever I want right in the middle of this hangup, for whatever that's worth.

I've done speed tests, ping tests, all o.k. There are many theories I found upon doing a google search, but thought I might ask here for some opinions and advice. Thanks in advance for any feedback.

 

Dumped Norton a few years ago, and using NOD32 now. Yes, using SSL. Don't know what that means, but it's always been that way, and this problem started a few months ago or so.

 

Would these settings mean it is necessary
http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j161/metalliholic06/2010-01-17_113900.jpg
or would I still need to call and confirm?