getting xampp running

[x_casp]

i know there is a similar post already but i need clarification.
i'm having a problem after installing xampp. i get the error "the connection was refused when attempting to contact localhost". is it that i have to instal IIS to get this to work?
here is some info:
machine: win2k
xampp is on a separate partion f:\XAMPP\xampp.
i have a netgear router and i have allowed port forwarding for http(prt. 80)

[MAGnUm]

nope you dont.