ITunes could not connect to the iTunes store.

Hi. I am using Windows XP Service Pack 3, running Internet Explorer 8 with the new iTunes 9, and I can not connect to the iTunes store.

Every time I try to access the store the following message occurs: "iTunes could not connect to the iTunes Store. The network connection has timed out. Make sure your network settings are correct and your network connection is active, then try agian."

I have no firewall running on my computer and I tired unchecking my proxy server boxes and nothing is working.

I tried uninstalling and reinstalling both Internet Explorer as well as iTunes, but still no luck. I also downloaded Safari 4 to see if that would allow me access to the iTunes store.

I am also not running my internet through a router or modem so there is no need to address those.

Anyone have any ideas on how I can fix this?