When I click online and login when in aces the computer locks up (keyboard unresponsive) and I have to hard reset. This occurs whether or not I am connected to the internet, and the result is just the same.
Next time this happens just let it sit. After a bit(less than a minute I think) a box should popup telling you it can't connect. It's not locked up, just busy trying to connect.
I've been having to login twice lately and the first couple of times I thought it was locking up too.
Your 'HOST CONNECTION LOST' message would confirm a connection problem.
Are you running a "firewall" program? Just a thought. If so you might have to give it permission to let AH connect.