Heroes 3 issues under XP or Vista.

I agree with the previous user. I have the same problem – the game only starts after the fourth attempt. BUT THIS DOESN'T CHANGE ANYTHING!!! I still can't play online. When using TCP/IP, the game simply freezes, and I can't do anything about it.
P.S.: I tried installing both a cracked version of SoD and the licensed Platinum Edition – it's all the same – a NIGHTMARE with playing online.