Windows XP-SP2: Can't get remote Assistance to work

[BigV]

I have two XP-SP2 machines connected to the internet.
Both are through PNP routers with the latest version of firmware.
I have verified SSDP Service and Iniversal Plug and play are started on each
PC.
I have also installed the latest DirectX.
Both PCs have the color video settings at 16 Bit - medium.
Windows firewall is shut off on both PCs.

I have tried requesting Remote Assistance. Each time the request goes to
the other computer and it is accepted, but then NOTHING HAPPENS. The hard
drive spins up, but nothing happens. This always happens, no matter which
PC requests the Remote assistance.

I have tried uninstalling and reinstalling MSN messenger 7.5 - same results.
I have tried upgrading Windows messenger to 5.1 - same results.
I have tried putting each PC in their respective DMZ - same results.
I have tried putting the PCs on the same network - same results.
I have run ad-aware on both machines - same results.
I CAN send Winks, nudges, file transfers, play a game, however, when I do
application sharing, each PC gets a Sharing Session window to pop up and
then it justs sits there waiting...

There must be some setting that is incorrect, but I can't find it. Help!

 

[Raybo]

You havent mentioned that your using firewalls at all.... but if you are,
then they will be stopping the connection. you will either need to shut them
down totally (not recommended) or give the programs access. Maybe that will
solve your problems.