thanks for your help on this. ill give it another go later in the week- and let you know how i get on!

thanks again

Router configuration isn't so hard, promise.

You can't really mess anything up unless you forget the key you assigned or something.

So just write down the changes you make to the router config and you'll be fine.

I'd also recommend setting your router not to broadcast it's SSID. But to be on the safe side you should first get your security settings to work and then switch off the ssid broadcast.

Also, like it has been already mentioned:
definitely get a firewall up and running and some reliable antivirus solution. I myself have had Norton Internet Security (firewall and antivirus software) and it works fine for me.

thanks ill give it a go