Okay, here is a little more comprehensive list of things to share and things to do.

NETWORK ISSUES:
Check the sticky regarding DMZ and ports.

/* checked */

Check that your router has up to date firmware.

/*no need to update*/

Verify that nobody on your internet connection (roommates, siblings) are streaming HD videos while you are playing.

/* other than any background data my cellphone uses while being connected to my wireless router, none */

Is anyone else having internet connection issues. In particular at the same time you are having trouble?

/* no, i still have internet on my phone*/

IS IT PLUGGED IN? Silly question I know, but verify that the network cable connector has a good lock. I had one break and it drove me nearly crazy finding it (PC not PS3).

/* switched Ethernet cables */

Are you using wireless? Don't.

/* lol i know, my ps3 is connected directly to my modem */

If you must use wireless is the router new or old? If it is older make sure it is not sitting on the back of a kitchen wall. Like the one the microwave is sitting at.

HEAT RELATED SOLUTIONS:
It is nearly winter here in the states so my PS3 is not running in a 80+F room.
Note that 85F+ may cause shutdown, in particular on older systems.

/* ps3 is generally cool (on tile floor in the basement) */

How loud is your fan running at the time? If it sounds like a 747 at takeoff, you might have heat issues.

/* rarely runs loud enough for me to hear */

For simple heat fixes clean the outside of your PS3. The intake holes get plugged with dust (oddly enough) and even worse with pet fur. Worse if the PS3 is close to or on the floor.

/* might be it, ill clean again */

For more technically minded open the case and give the interior a cleaning as well.

/* i would but i wouldnt have the time to do it in one sitting */

For the even more technically minded than that, if you are running a fat PS3 consider replacing the thermal paste. Several YouTube videos show how it can be done. That is what I resorted to, although Dust514 was not the actual issue. Just ran hot and loud so I cleaned it and replaced the thermal paste while it was apart. Dust still makes the fan spool up louder than any other game I have though. Just sayin.

/* was on phat till my cousin took it and i got a slim (phat looks hella sexy tho) */

Note that older fat PS3s will warp the motherboard if they get hot enough. This will crack solder connections and make the system unreliable. In further bad news it might make it unreliable under all conditions. Or it might work fine when it is warm but will no longer work when it gets warmer.

If you have $200 to spare the PS3 slim runs much cooler and quieter, although one would hope you have many games for that to be worthwhile.

/* i do, but only Dust freezes the console, so buying a superslim would be wasteful, if more games froze it i would have*/


Good Luck.
/* your a million isk man, thanks */