>I am using the CREATEOBJECTEX() function successfully, but it hangs when the server that has the COM object is not accessible on the internet. I have to terminate the application.
>
>Is there any way to test and IP Address to see if it responds ("ping" it) seamlessly within a VFP app?

Also take a look at the docs for http://www.west-wind.com/wwIPStuff.asp
to see if it would be of use.