Update - I uninstalled windows update KB939653 (security patch for IE 7) and
now IE works but I'm still having problems with other programs not being able
to access the internet. I tried opening the help and support center but it
says "You have lost your connection to the Windows Help and Support website.
Try to connect again."
If you are having the same problem, check out KB939653 and note KB942818
under known issues. (big surprise - MS says its a 3rd party vendor's fault).
I foresee a complete reinstall of windows in my near future.

"cksea" wrote:

> I am experiencing the same problem. I tried resetting but that hasn't
> resolved it. I also tried disabling the firewall and that didn't fix it
> either. Any ideas?
> Thanks!
>
> "Majkl" wrote:
>
> >
> > "Majkl" wrote:
> >
> > > I have downloaded the MSIE 7 from the Microsoft website, installed propperly,
> > > rebooted - and lo, it is not going onine.
> > >
> > > I am getting the following:
> > >
> > > -----
> > > Internet Explorer cannot display the webpage
> > >
> > > Most likely causes:
> > > You are not connected to the Internet.
> > > The website is encountering problems.
> > > There might be a typing error in the address.
> > >
> > > What you can try:
> > > Diagnose Connection Problems
> > >
> > > More information
> > >
> > > This problem can be caused by a variety of issues, including:
> > > Internet connectivity has been lost.
> > > The website is temporarily unavailable.
> > > The Domain Name Server (DNS) is not reachable.
> > > The Domain Name Server (DNS) does not have a listing for the website's
> > > domain.
> > > If this is an HTTPS (secure) address, click Tools, click Internet Options,
> > > click Advanced, and check to be sure the SSL and TLS protocols are enabled
> > > under the security section.
> > >
> > > For offline users
> > >
> > > You can still view subscribed feeds and some recently viewed webpages.
> > > To view subscribed feeds
> > >
> > > Click the Favorites Center button , click Feeds, and then click the feed you
> > > want to view.
> > >
> > > To view recently visited webpages (might not work on all pages)
> > >
> > > Click Tools , and then click Work Offline.
> > > Click the Favorites Center button , click History, and then click the page
> > > you want to view.
> > > -----
> > >
> > > My connection is okay, I am using both Opera and mozilla Firefox, they are
> > > encountering zero issues accessing the same websites as the MSIE is failing
> > > to.
> > >
> > > Now, what can be wrong, please?
> > >
> > > Thajs in advance and kind Regards,
> > >
> > > Majkl
> > >
> > ----------
> > ----------
> >
> > Okay - I tries Tools - Internet options - Advanced - Reset. It works as long
> > as my firewall is disabled.
> >
> > Majkl