The standard getUrlContent works welll when there is no firewall. But I got exceptions when I try to do it behind a firewall.
I\'ve tried to set \"http proxy server
See if this little beastie will help you. It may be that you need this in the emulator image you are running.
http://openhandsetmagazine.com/2007/11/tips-howto-connect-android-emulator-behind-proxy/