outlook 2003 not sending emails with error code 0x800cccof

[stevenjf]

i have been using outlook 2003 ( as pasrt of Office 2003 ) for a while and
this error code has recently started to appear . it indicates a problem with
my isp connection interferring with sending and also receiving ( at times )
emails .

i am using a 2 meg broadband connection via a netgear router .

i have aksed my isp ( british telecom ) for help and they have tested my
line which checks out fine . They indicate that the problem lies elsewhere .

i have disconnected norton antivirus 2005 ( which was also indicating a
problem ) for outgoing emails .

i have powered down my router , disconnected all plugs etc and reconnected
and the problem does NOT go away .

i am using XP pro with service pack 2 .

i notice having searched for this error code that there appear to be quite a
number of unresolved issues with others online .

i have checked through the MS help pages and norton help and nothing seems
to help .

i am stumped , can someone help me ???

many thanks

Steve