What reasons would there be for my computer to be unable to download, install, or launch a music program? I have tried bearshare, limewire, kazaa, etc, and there is always some kind of problem either downloading the file (e.g., will stop at 12%) or launching it (with bearshare: a required component was missing; with kazaa: could not connect to the internet, even though internet was working). I have a pentium III (I know, it is a dinosaur!), and I am running windows 2000. Thanks!

Alice, April 2008

The music programs are obviously downloading and installing correctly onto your machine or you would not get part downloads. All of the programs you mention use peer to peer sharing technology(p2p), which is at the best of times somewhat complicated to set up. your computer will probably be behind a firewall, especially if you are using a wired or wireless router to access the internet. Your computer may also be blocking certain ports which the P2p programs require access to. Without launching into reams of technical jargon could i suggest you look at www.portforward.com, or the user forums of the program you are struggling with.

Mark, April 2008