accepting files post sp2 using windows messenger

[Guest]

I'm sure this subject was addressed somewhere, but I couldnt find it among
the recent posts

I just upgraded to SP2, and now, I cannot download (accept) file from a
windows messenger contact. Windows messenger says something like "you are
using a firewall -- cannot establish connection"
I am using windows firewall (sp2). I am able to talk, etc.. using messenger
I read a KB article about opening certain ports for windows messenger to
accept files, but that was prior to SP2. should I still be opening ports or
should I be able to accept files?

I am using a router which has hardware firewall (cannot be disabled), but it
always worked prior to SP2.

thanks for your input
Mike

 

[Jonathan Kay [MVP]]

Greetings Mikey,

Actually when you accept files on Windows Messenger you connect to your contact and download
the file (known as an outgoing connection). The firewall in SP2 (and in SP1/original XP
release) blocks incoming connections only. As such, the problem is in fact on your contacts'
side (perhaps they've installed SP2 as well, another software firewall or some sort of router
device)?

Unfortunately without knowing more detail about what's happening on your contacts' side, it's
hard to say exactly what's going on, however if you'd like a quick workaround, both of you
could install MSN Messenger 6.x (http://messenger.msn.com/Download), which among other
things, allows you to simply send files through the Messenger servers (bypassing the need for
a direct connection).
____________________________________________
Jonathan Kay
Microsoft MVP - Windows Messenger/MSN Messenger
Associate Expert
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/expertzone/
Messenger Resources - http://messenger.jonathankay.com
All posts unless otherwise specified are (c) 2004 Jonathan Kay.
You *must* contact me for redistribution rights.