suddenly now when I access these forums from ANY computer in my house, I get this error. I have to use a proxy like anonymouse.org to get on.

Seems like my provider has blacklisted you by mistake. Do you have a dynamic or static IP address? If dynamic, try switching off and unplugging your modem / router for a few minutes and then re-connect it. If you got a static IP address that does not change, we'll have to see if the error goes away or if I'll have to contact support.

SunSpire

looks like I am back on... let's hope it stays.

what causes it to do that btw? just wondering...

Whether you have a static or dynamic IP address depends on your internet service provider and type of connection. Broadband internet via cable modem for instance tends to be static (your IP never changes or only changes periodically - like once every half year), whereas dial-up and broadband internet through the phone line are often dynamic (your IP changes with every new connection and / or every 24 hrs)