"printer not communicating"

I think it is a problem with the microsoft automatic downloads, but my dell photo 926 keeps having the same problem, not able to communicate" and even though I am following the dell fix I keep having to fix it.  During the fix, the instructions say to make sure my firewall is set up to allow the printer communication.  after the fix, I can use the printer another day or two.  I have tried to disable automatic microsoft  update in case that is it.  I can't imagine it is a fiewall problem if I can get it to work,  but have to try something.

 

How do I make sure the firewall is not affecting the printer?

How do I see what version of norton I have.

 

running Vista.  dislike it immensly.

 

Thanks in advance.

 

five thumbs.