Thanks for the swift response...
I read the other posts, but anything that was applicable to me didnt seem to work... After a few hours trawling the forums and trying searches I dont seem to find anything else to try.

I have disabled all firewalls, and tried to see if the server is offline... (using the windows "run" with the correct command)
When I do this, it just times out, which apparently means either the server is offline or my isp is blocked... im using a uni internet connection, do they block this as a default? (in UK)

Dont know much about PCs, but my system requirements are capable too.
From what I have found on the forums, downloading the latest version means I dont have to update?? - It wont update in any case...

Any input would be greatly appreciated