Since v1.7 is only for testing right now, there shouldn't be a server running it. You could try playing on Arimyth via OpenBattle.net, I know you can get a game started at least, but I've not had any luck joining other v1.7 games, or having others join mine. My network setup might have issues though, so give it a shot.
You are welcome to play v1.7 with others though, via TCP/IP ("Other Multiplayer"). I'm pretty sure you'd have to configure
port forwarding for Diablo2 since it's a pretty old game.
If you can't find others, then Normal difficulty shouldn't be too hard if you're playing with a merc and don't mind abusing the testing-recipes to get yourself fully socketed up or with an item you'd like to try out. Trash monsters are pretty easy to tame if you've got something to manipulate their AI (Attract, Confuse, DimVision, BlindsTarget, Convert, Howl, GrimWard, CloakOfShadows, MindBlast, Decoy or other Summon, Freezing effects... pretty sure that's nearly everything). You can find some curses on any wand as an oskill, or skull-craft for onStruck/onStrike procs if your class can't afford the mana for casting.
The value of testing solo is that you'll be more aware of when your build is behaving strangely, rather than just assuming the other player is behind the shenanigans. The value of playing in a team is that you'll have an idea of how other builds react to the same situation (some monsters are weak to elemental damage, yet a phys-damage build could leach his way through a massive mob without taking much damage). Feel free to play both.
If you've already played some, then can you explain why it wasn't much fun? I've already made changes to the Charger Paladin because I decided to play with one after hearing Shantu's unhappiness with them. He didn't get around to providing feedback, but at least I became aware that an investigation was needed. I've also recently made changes to low level physical damage on weapons, since I was able to find an error in how they had been balanced previously. Those changes are likely to be shared publicly within a week.