Question : Cannot connect to ftp site using IE6

I have 2 laptops connected to my Covad DSL modem, both access the internet with no problem, both are running Windows XP Pro and have IE6 installed.  And both used to be able to connect to ftp sites.  Now one of the laptops cannot. connect to any ftp sites.

As a test I went to ftp.microsoft.com ... on laptop #1 it gets there immediately and I can see the folders.

On laptop #2 IE6 just sits there with the searching icon (the flashlight/folder icon), and it shows "Getting contents of folder" in the text bar at the bottom of the window.  After approx 5 minutes an "FTP Folder Error" window pops up with the following text:  "An error occurred opening that folder on the FTP server.  Make sure you have permission to access that folder. Details:  The operation timed out."

I have compared IE6 and Network connection settings between the 2 laptops and can find no differences.  Internet Connection Firewall is turned off on both PCs.

Any ideas of other things I can check?

Thanks.

Answer : Cannot connect to ftp site using IE6

There are a number of 'possible' issues here, and we will need to step through them one at a time to resolve this.

In order of 'suspicion' I would look to eliminate these as issues:

1 Damaged or 'driver impared' NIC
2 Router misconfig blocking traffic
3 Security on LT2 (Low at this point since you were able to connect, just not xfer data)
4 Compromised computer, with some virus/spyware using FTP Port

Reversing the IP addresses (Hard code one in the range you are using from your router). give LT1 the IP address now on LT2 and vice versa. If the router is the issue, this migh 'move' the problem to the other computer. Also change the wire leads (at least revers them) and see if the problem follows one of these changes. Make sure you test after VEVERY change.
(If you need help with this step, let me know)

I had asked if you were having trouble with any other protocols (can you receive email on the LT2, browse web site etc) please let me know that answer

walk the lap top to another network if you can, this will eliminate a number of causes (router, etc)

My gut tells me this FTP issue is the tip of a bigger iceburg with some problem on the laptop. When we started you said they were configured identically, but I see that they are actually differnt brands of computer, and not 'identical' you will need to compare as many setting as possible.  If possible, plug LT2 directly to the DSL modem and see if the problem persists.

Tom