Cant open any tcp/udp ports

Hi, I am trying to install and run a p2p program (emule) but I keep getting told that my TCP port test is failing. I am using norton internet security and a netgear wireless router with a firewall built in. I have tried creating specfic rules in both firewalls for the ports used by emule but with no luck. I have also tried opening all tcp and udp ports but this only resulted in me being told off by Symantics online security checker! Any ideas why I cant open the specific ports?
I can only assume that this is why I get very limited restults returned from other p2p programs like limewire and bittorrent as well....?

Oh, my isp is telecom in new zealand if that makes any difference... and i'm running windows xp sp2 and firefow 1.5.0.8 on a sony vaio fr315m.
cheers

 

Hi, can I just add that I have just read a few of your other p2p threads and seem to get the feeling your not fans.... fair enough, they are a pain over large networks. But its lust little old me on this one and its my bandwidth i'm using. If you could help me out here I'd be greatful.
Oh, the broadband package i'm on with my isp is one that gives little bandwidth to p2p programs that are hogging to much during peak times. Could they also be stopping me from opening these ports?
cheers

 

I doubt your ISP will block the ports. You will get told off by your software firewall because opening any port is dangerous. If you can live dangerously (if you're using P2P you probably can) then ignore it and go right ahead.

And you are very right, P2P over large networks is an absolute, complete and utter, pain. I used to wonder why ISPs would apply bandwidth shaping to P2P - now I'm administrating such a network I know exactly why. Not to mention many P2P programs have adware which messes with our authentication system - ending up with us having faults reported that arn't really faults at all!

*cough* </rant>