Can't connect to MP games.

Plenty of threads all over the place about people with the same issue.. unable to connect to multiplayer games, no 'solutions' thus far have solved my problem.
By myself i cant connect to SvM matches, havent played any games.. so im level 1 and cant try any others.
Had a friend invite me, couldnt connect to him. vice versa when i invited him, failed.

frustrating.. i just want to play the bloody game.