"Failed to Respond" victims try this v.2

A while ago I experienced a troublesome "Failed to Respond" error and found a solution/workaround - here is that thread:
http://discussions.apple.com/message.jspa?messageID=1023629#1023629

I recently tried to chat after a prolonged period of time and was met by my old nemesis, "Failed to Respond". After reading countless posts and changing numerous settings on my router, iBook and then my hardwired G4 I was running out of ideas.
I only chat with my folks and they said nothing had changed on their end however for the sake of troubleshooting I had my dad bypass his router and plug directly into the cable modem - it worked like a champ!

True, I do not know what is causing the problem on his end but the workaround is successful. So add this one to your arsenal of troubleshooting tips and it may pay off.