I have a DI-524 d link router and am having huge problems with the port forwarding. Ive tried opening several connections through the virtual server, fireware, and application tabs and it never works. I tried by passing it by setting my computer as the dmz, and it half works. I got the ports open now but it seems like my network connection is choking on the open connections. any help would be great.

Try upgrading your router's firmware (you can get it from D-Link's website).