It may just be an Internet Explorer issue..Download the free Firefox browser from the link below and install it. Although Firefox takes a few seconds to load initially to open the home page, it should load all type URL's fine.
http://www.mozilla.com/firefox/
Another thought..Try disabling one of the services that's not required..If you're using a HOSTS file and IF you're using Windows 2000 or XP, disabling the "DNS Client" service is a requirement. Do it like this: Click on Start-Run, type "services.msc", then click on OK. When the "Services" window loads, scroll down to the "DNS Client" service and double click on it. In the "Start Up Type" line, change it from "Automatic" to "Manual" by using the drop down arrow. Then click on the "Stop" button in the "Service Status" section. Now click on "Apply", then OK. Now restart the computer and see if things work quicker.
Hope this helps.
Grif
Hopefully someone can help here. I have checked the HD with adaware, spybot, ewido (for malware) and NAV corporate. There were no issues found. I have done a disk cleanup and a defragment, deleted unneeded pictures and files unrelated to the OS. When IE comes up, it loads fairly quickly. If I type in an address in the url that was not in history or has a cookie on the machine it takes about 1 minute for the page to load. Once the page is loaded the surf speed is fine. If I click on a link it seems to be quick also. If I download, the speeds are around 40 to 200kbps. It used to be around 350 to 400. Cnet claims my DL speed is at 3675mbps on a 4 mbps connection. What could be causing the initial page to load that slowly with no virus, ad or spyware being detected?