firewall settings cannot be accessed

[sockets]

Windows firewall settings cannot be displayed because the associated service is not running

 

[bcastner]

Start, Run, CMD

In the DOSbox, type:
netsh winsock reset

Wait for the message that a reboot is required and reboot.

 

[linney]

After you run Microsoft Windows AntiSpyware (Beta), you have network-related problems, or you receive an error message

http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;892350&FR=1&PA=1&SD=HSCH

You cannot start the Windows Firewall service in Windows XP Service Pack 2

http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;892199&FR=1&PA=1&SD=HSCH

Troubleshooting Windows Firewall settings in Windows XP Service Pack 2

http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;875357&FR=1&PA=1&SD=HSCH

WinXP Connectivity Issues
Lost Connectivity after Registry or Malware Cleanup
faq779-4625