If you like to use Internet Explorer to access FTP sites, you might find you have problems if you are behind a firewall. The reason for this is not all firewalls are created equal. Some firewalls have the "smarts" required to support what is called "standard" or "PORT" mode FTP. However, if you don't have a smart firewall, you'll need to use what's called "Passive" or "PASV" mode FTP. If your FTP downloads using Internet Explorer aren't cooperating, then try this out:

1. Open Internet Explorer, click Tools and then click the Internet Options command.
2. Click on the Advanced tab. Place a checkmark in the Use Passive FTP (for firewall and DSL modem compatibility) checkbox. Close all the Internet Explorer windows.

Open Internet Explorer again and try your FTP site. You should now be able to download.