I think that chibianh and irmongoose are correct. There must be a server problem with the website.
I just tried Software Up. running OS X 10.1.3 (not ..4) and there was no established connection.
Now why would there be a server problem with Apple and Software Update? The only reasons I can think of are that Apple may be changing their server clock, server operating system, or maybe even something else. What would that be?
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Anytime is a great time for iPod.