netgear dg834 router and hotmail logon

[stevedefries]

does anyone know how to get hotmail and windows messenger to work through a netgear dg834 router. im on to aol ok but can't log in. my kids have subsequently disowned me and won't speak to me till i get it sorted out.

[desertrat]

I have a DG834G and I haven't had any of the problems you describe. I use Windows XP. Have you setup any additional security on the router blocking any particular ports? If you also run a software firewall it may be worth checking to see if it has automatically setup blocks to various ports. I found that problem where I thought it was the netgear box blocking my access to a particular site but it was actually the software firewall on the PC. It may be worth trying an upgrade to the firmware on the router. Simply download the latest firmware from the netgear web site and follow the instructions.

[Oneeyedvic]

I too have a DG834 with no problems - like desert rat, I wouldn't have thought it is the router but the firewall. If you want further help, tell us op system, inc whether SE for 98 and which SPs for XP. Also what firewall are you using?