MSN Messenger 6.1 (6.1.0211) Signing in / Signing out

Within the past week, MSN Messenger 6.1 (6.1.0211) signs in
automatically, which is what I like when I have to reboot, but it is
somehow losing connection and signing out automatically as well, then
it signs in again and signs out again and so on ...

I'm using a cable modem, Zone Alarm PRO (but I have given Messenger
sufficient rights). I've uninstalled and re-installed the program,
but this has not helped. I've been using Messenger for well over 6
months without any problems, up until now. This issue is happening on
BOTH of my computers (desktop and laptop). I am using a LINKSYS
BEFW11S4 v.2 wireless router, but I don't believe this is the issue,
as I am DIRECTLY wired in to my desktop computer and I am still having
problems.

I've tried PINGING a few websites, the popular ones (ABCNEWS.com,
ESPN.com, FOXNEWS.com) and I have no packets lost. However, I did
just try pinging CNN.com and all 4 packets were lost as it timed out.
Same thing for CNNSI.com . Is it possible I am having service
problems and not able to tell for the most part with just browsing on
the web?

I appreciate any and all help. Cox customer support, well, let's just
say they don't understand.

Thanks.