I know that this is rural North Lincs UK and I can't rule out the fact that the millennium bug may have taken its time to arrive here, but this is driving me nuts.

Windows ME (yeuch) IE and Outlook

I log on, get the confirmation that I am connected to the ISP.

Click the IE icon

Wait whilst the home page tries to open

The mouse pointer behaves as if it is stuck in jam

I try to log off but everything takes an age and eventually if freezes solid.

I give up and play the violin for a bit.

I have tried anti-virus things and no worms or other filth is detected. The computer is a cream one and I am probably exceeding my IT abilities even posting here, but is there anything that you feel might help?

I don't have the original software for IE as it was pre-loaded, but I have the Outlook stuff and a set of stolen Office 2000 Software, which I haven't used but am prepared to put on, if my conscience will allow it.

I'd be really grateful for any advice.