FAQ's

Questions

• Que1 - I am unable to logon to the ICQ Network. I keep getting the message "Rate Limit Exceeded". What is it, why am I getting it, and how do I eliminate it?
  Applicable Versions: 2002 / 2003
  
  
• Que2 - Can I add additional servers to improve my connection capabilties?
  Applicable Versions: 2002 / 2003
  
  
• Que3 - My ICQ was working fine but suddenly I am unable to connect to the ICQ Network. What's wrong?
  Applicable Versions: 2002 / 2003
  
  
• Que4 - I've downloaded and installed ICQ but it refuses to connect. What's wrong?
  Applicable Versions: 2002 / 2003
  
  
  
• ICQ Inc's FAQ's. [What's This?]

Questions with Answers.

Que1: Version[s]: 2002 / 2003

ICQ Inc. uses the AOL network to connect its Users. The "Rate Limit Exceeded" message prompt is an AOL restriction on how many times you can attempt to connect using the same computer and the same UIN over a set period of time. Simply put, it is an AOL side security feature that prevents its network from being flooded with connection attempts.

The simple solution here is to wait for a period of time before re-attempting to connect. Additionally, you can enable a connection setting in ICQ that may improve your situation. Here's how:

1.) Open ICQ

2.) Click on the "Main" button in your main menu.

3.) Click on "Preferences form the pop-up menu and select "Connections" from the Preferences menu.

4.) Click on the "Server" tab.

5.) Enable (Put a check beside) "Keep connection alive".

Que2: Version[s]: 2002 / 2003

No. ICQ establishes a connection through login.icq.com and is the one and only way to connect to the ICQ network.

Que3: Version[s]: 2002 / 2003

Occasionally, routine maintenace, upgrades, or other issues effecting the ICQ servers can cause connection problems. Even though the Network Status may be reported as having no problems by ICQ, the problem is not a settings issue you can control on your side. If you have made no changes to your system and have had no problems connecting to ICQ previously, then keep trying periodically. Your connection problem may dissappear as unexpectedly as it appeared.

Que4: Version[s]: 2002 / 2003

Firewall settings may be preventing you from connecting. Windows XP incorporates a buit-in firewall as part of the operating system. Consult your Windows Help files for more info.

More Firewall information can be found at the following:
http://www.icq.com/icqtour/firewall/