KBA-01852     Last Updated: 05/21/2010 Go back Return to previous page Print article Print this article

iolo Personal Firewall is blocking access to AOL Instant Messenger

This article applies to:
  • iolo Personal Firewall

Problem

iolo Personal Firewall is blocking access to AOL Instant Messenger.

Cause

AOL Instant Messenger uses ports that iolo Personal Firewall is set to block by default. Under normal conditions iolo Personal Firewall should prompt the user to allow access to AIM upon start-up of the application. If this process is aborted or does not occur it may be necessary to manually allow access.

Resolution

To resolve this issue so that both iolo Personal Firewall and AOL Instant Messenger can run simultaneously three rules must be created within the firewall.

 

 

1.       Start iolo Personal Firewall.

2.       In the Zone Security panel on the main firewall dashboard locate the Internet Zone. Click View Zone Options.

3.       Select Turn on security and choose a specific security level.

4.       Find the Custom security level below and click Edit settings.

5.       Select Custom Ports.

6.       Rule One:
A. Select Custom Ports and click Add.

B. In the Rule description field enter: AIM Rule 1

C. In the Port number field enter 5180.

D. Select the TCP and UDP boxes.

E. Select Incoming and Outgoing boxes and click OK.

 

7.       Rule Two:
A. From the Custom Ports tab, click Add.
B. In the Rule description field enter: AIM Rule 2

C. In the Port number field enter 5190.

D. Select the TCP and UDP boxes.

E. Select Incoming and Outgoing boxes and click OK.

 

8.       Rule Three:
A. From the Custom Ports tab, click Add.
B. In the Rule description field enter: AIM Rule 3
C. Select Port Range.
D. In the Port number field enter 1024-5000.
E. Select the TCP and UDP boxes.
F. Select Incoming and Outgoing boxes and click OK.

 

9.       Select Save and close the iolo Personal Firewall window.

10.   Run AOL Instant Messenger and iolo Personal Firewall as desired.



Note: For further information on AOL connectivity issues, please click here to visit AOL's Connectivity Info web page.