There is a file in XP called "host" tucked away inside a hidden directory in C:\WINDOWS\system32\driver\etc\. Windows looks at this file first when you start a browser and it doesn't matter which browser. This file remaps the URL to an IP address. In my case the IP address happen to be 127.0.0.1 which is the standard IP address used for a loopback network connection. I renamed the file to "host.old" and generated a blank file called "host" and saved it in that directory just in case. You can view/edit this file with notetab. I guess the question is how did this happen? I wish I knew. I hope this helps other with similar problems.
I've 2 PC's one with XP/HE, the other with Win98 connected through the same router and I use both Firefox and IE. What would prevent my PC/XP from connecting to one "specific" website unless I use an IP address. I've throughly scan my PC for viruses, spyware/malware and edited my registry file. I'm not being redirected because this is the same screen that pops if you try to connect to any website before connecting on line first. Oddly enough it's a US govn't website which provides a public service that I can't connect to. I have no problem connecting to this website on my Win98 PC. Sorry I can't mention this website due to CNet regulations.
Any ideas, I fresh out.
Thanks Gerry

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