After many hours and massive frustration, I have finally created a LAN server using
http://www.eqemulator.org/forums/showthread.php?t=32293 that shows up in the server selection screen. However, when I try to enter it, EQ gives me the "Error 1017- unable to connect you might need to patch/update" message. There is no way that I have connected to the live patch so you can rule that out. I have tried proof-reading/altering my .xml file with no luck...among other things. I finally thought that my work had paid off =( if someone could please provide any insight I'd be eternally grateful. If you require any file information I'd be more than willing to provide. Thankyou, sigh.