Ok, i run run this game behind all my protection and my ping value is still ok. Running your anti virus during gameplay is advised, but optional depending on your computer speed. Your problems sounds like it could be one of two things. Firstly, you need the original Call of Duty installed. The other if you have got the original game, may be your firewall. I used to have the same problem with Call of Duty and i had Zone Alarm too. It works ok, but i deciced to later use Norton Firewall as i use them for my a.v.
My solution was simple. Zone Alarm occasionally (in my opinion) had trouble allowing new programs to access the net on the first attempt. Remove the Call of Duty United Offensive from the
firewall program list. Start The game and in
Options >>>
Graphics. Set the fullscreen to
off. Set it to suit your Screensize if desired. This way by pressing your windows key on your keyboard (between Ctrl & Alt) you can still have control off your pc. Not recommended for slower processors. You will get two pop ups from Zone Alarm to allow access and server to CoDUO.MP. Allow them both and proceed to your configuration, setting it the same as your original CoD game. Choose servers that are in tandom with your ping value. Ones closer to home are better. Try this link for finding local servers:
Click here Servers that are not locked. (password protected) But you know that already. Sometimes if you find yourself 'hanging' while awaiting gamestate you can always press escape. Bring down console ( the `¬ key to the left of 1) and type
/reconnect or even find a server you like and enter
/connect ***.**.***.***:***** <<<***'s being the i.p. number
What a game
Let me know if you sorted it out.