I don't think it's your Zone Alarm. I have it and have no trouble getting into chat. If something does pop-up when you are trying to get in...make sure you say ok. But I could be wrong. I had a LOT of problems when I installed a Microsoft update and had Zone Alarm...but that was an internet connection problem.

I always say no, and if something I want doesn't popup, I try it again. Trial and error. Sorry I wasn't much help!