So I figured out that
the search function was the cause of my server locking up due to # of connections.
I have since turned off search functions.
I just tested the advanced search and it just sits there running, not returning anything.

Of course I need the
advanced search function to work. Anyone know why this is happening and maybe a solution?

Server Info:
RH Linux 2.6.8
Apache 1.3.27
PHP 4.3.10
Max v2.0 RC3
MySQL 3.23.58