Static Ip and ports

[Klo]

Sorry if this is a noobish question...

I was wondering if I need to have a static ip address. My computer is connected to a router by a Ethernet cable, which in turn is connected to another computer via USB. I want to download bittorant files (legal ones mind you!!) and I never get a connection speed faster than 4kb/s, although my internet speed is 2mbit.

Any ideas whether I need to do this, or whether it is a fault with my equipment would be appeciated! I think it may be something to do with ports, but i don't know how to open and close them.

I have a BT Voyager 205 and 2mbit broadband

 

[benjo]

Hey there

This should be your answer

http://www.portforward.com/

Just click on forwarding and its quite simple from then on, it will prompt you to set up a static IP, which is also explained

 

[tolien]

Could depend on source, though you should check firewalls et al as well.
You don't need a static IP though.