Thank you everyone who has responded – this has been extremely helpful. I re-read my request and realised i left out about 1hr of helpless frustration, (turning the computer off & on, not being able to access favourites or open any internet files, seeing my computer's doom in front of me with any empty wallet..) It was also very good to find out others have been there..

I'm pleased to hear that IE7 has been completely reliable for some, but not ready to go through the process yet. Have learnt some very handy hints about entering urls myself, and new words - Phishing and spoofing,

I've now copied Housecallfree anti virus checker - this advice came just at the right time as my other free virus checker (AVG) is trying to turn into a paid one. I was going to try XP's Service Pack 2 but have decided not to upload - if Joe can't work out how to get rid of it, I certainly won't be able to either!

I think the most outstanding advice came from JiKansas re the default Browser for Widows (this could come in handy!)

thanks everyone, i appreciate all your advice & assistance!

freda