[VistaRookie]

Did your computer come with a trial copy of Norton or McAfee?

Just uninstalling either one will not work. They both leave stuff
behind. Each has a special removal tool. I'll look up the links
for you, if this applies.

Did you actually do a system restore at some point?

I can't see how a hardware problem would know to keep you off
of email websites and yet allow you to visit other sites, etc.

If all else fails, save all your important data, format and reinstall XP.

[Tigger]

Well, I had one hell of a virus last year and had to reformat. But instead of doing the "Factory Restore" I wiped the drive clean and put my copy of XP Pro (instead of factory XP Home) onto the machine. So that would null and void any strands of any McAfee or Norton left on here.

As for doing another reformat. . I could do that and was prepared to do that but I then read a post from a gent having the issue for 7 months and he decided to do just that. Format and clean install. Then right after he loads OS and drivers, right out of the gate he has the same issue. That scared me off a bit from going through so much work to net nothing.

Unless you think that was a chance situation with that guy, I'd be willing to give it a go around. However, I think that for most of my devices I might get their version IDs and go to the manufacturer websites to get the drivers rather than count on the Dell CD.

What would your thoughts be on that? Do you think I should still bite that bullet and see what happens?

Thanks

[VistaRookie]

I would try a system restore first before a complete reinstall.
Use the oldest date before the problem came up.

The only advice I can offer about reformatting, if everything
worked before, then it should work after reformatting and
installing XP. Maybe that guy that did that had some kind
of hardware problem? Maybe he only reinstalled and did
not format?

As to whether you should do the reinstall, if you are tired
of searching for some kind of repair, then do it. I had an
obscure javascript problem. I checked my javascript at
various sites and it passed with flying colors. But a
script I had would not work. Took me all last week,
several hours. Finally found the registry entry that I
needed. So, I fully know the frustration of trying to solve
these problems.

You could hold out a bit, maybe someone will post a
cure.

I am sure if you took your computer to a shop, they would
reinstall. Good luck.

[Tigger]

For better or worse, I have dumped the system and performed a clean install. In my case it worked and I seem to be doing fine with the secure websites. I do wish that I knew what trigger did this to my system, but I am relieved that it is solved; I only wish I had the answer to others who may come seeking answers.

Thanks to all,
Joel

[VistaRookie]

Tony is glad you got it too!