Connection problems

[MasonGT]

Hey, i've got a problem w/ keeping the connection on AIM. Over a month ago, I was using an older version of 5.9. I had no problems until one day the Internet connection was lost after I left my laptop on, and AIM on "away" and idle. (I've got a wireless Internet connection, at home).
I downloaded the latest version (5.9.3797), and the problem was resolved. Then, just today, I run into the same exact problem again. I reinstalled AIM, and i haven't tested it to see if i'd get disconnected again.
Other info: I have McAfee VirusScan (I scanned laptop, but no viruses were found), Ad-Aware (I scanned, and found only tracking cookies), ZoneAlarm.
For the ZoneAlarm, I allowed access to AIM.exe and MSMSGS.exe ever since I started using it (over 2 years ago). Also, I enable the "Internet Lock" function everytime I leave my Internet connected and unattended. I also granted AIM.exe and MSMSGS.exe pass-lock access.
And, one more thing, as soon as I get back and see that the connection is lost, I go to my "Network Connections" to check. Under "Address Type", it says Automatic Private Address (it usually says Assigned By DHCP). The IP address is some weird address I've never seen before.
Anyway, please help. Thanks.

[SlapShot]

ah it seems all wireless devices have that problem, only if they are idle, and its happening with 4.x versions, for some reason

[David]

'Some weird address'? What address is it? This could be an issue of the wireless connection losing signal and reconnecting to the access point, but the DHCP server is not responding fast enough (or at all), and thus the connection is lost.

[MasonGT]

I don't remember the exact weird IP address, but it starts w/ 169. The rest I can't recall.

[David]

A 169 address means the DHCP server is not responding, or you are not on the network at all. Perhaps move closer to the access point?

[MasonGT]

Originally Posted by David

A 169 address means the DHCP server is not responding, or you are not on the network at all. Perhaps move closer to the access point?

I just tried to leave AIM connected once again. Signed on @ 5:30, came back to check @ 7:00, and it was disconnected. The exact IP address is: 169.254.0.136

David--I've had my laptop about 4 feet away from the cable modem + router (it's a Motorola Wireless Surfboard Gateway SBG900), ever since we got wireless.