Multiplayer in BF1942

OK, I've been struggling with this for awhile so i gave up, and now I'm asking for your advice. In Battlefield 1942, its been impossible for me to start my own server(not dedicated, just starting one by going to custom game..etc)

I have cable internet and use a Linksys BEFSR41 router to connnect 3 pc's. I know you have to mess with port forwarding and stuff, and I've tried my best, but have come out the loser... Please help if you can!

P.S. After playing with some of the settings on the router I managed to get it where my friends can see the server, but they are unable to connect to it.....

Ok, it has to be something on my computer, I can run and connect to the server if I set it up on my dad's laptop. But when I try it on my pc, it always fails! Both Pc's are running Windows XP

Its probbly your Windows firewall. to turn it off do:

start menu
control pannel
network connections
*your connection*
right click>properties
advanced tab
*uncheck the firewall box*

Hope this helps

Thank you so much Agassi, I recently reformatted/reinstalled...I somehow must have left the firewall checked....stupid me..you're a life saver:grinthumb