WRT54G problem

I recently updated my Linksys WRT54G wireless router to the latest
firmware offered by linksys (2.04.4). I have a single laptop computer
using this router wireless). Periodically I enable a port forwarding rule
for all ports (0-65000 both TCP/UDP) to forward to the IP of my laptop.
This works fine until i attempt to remove thisd port forward rule (I
uncheck the box). Once the rule is created/enabled, I can not disable it,
doing so, cuts off my laptop from the internet. I can contact the router,
but that's it. I've tried rebooting my laptop, restarting the router, and
restarting the cable modem. The only thing that works is pushing the
reset button on the router (losing all my settings). Before flashing the
firmware this did not happen. Anyone else experiencing this? Any
suggestions? Thanks in advance....