Connection problems

Hey guys – never needed to post before, but I’ve got some major problems connecting to AIM and other messaging services (Steam, MSN, etc.)…Simply put, none of them even so much as attempt to connect.

I’m pretty good with computers and despite rumors to the contrary, I’m not brain dead. Yes my computer is turned on, yes the internet is working, IP is up running and valid (thus the internet works), ports don’t seem blocked, no routers, no cable modems…I’ve tried everything and all my services immediately say they’re unable to connect. No attempt is even made. No other screen names will log in either…I’ve searched the forums and checked all the other fixes, nothing works. Any help beyond all that is appreciated 🙂

EDIT: I figured it out…I removed both MSN and AIM (even though I’m pretty sure MSN caused the problem) I proceeded to force a restart with the last known good settings and everything was fine. Hope this helps someone who encounters the same problem 😉