Deciding whether XP or Windows 7 is better is a matter of personal choice of course. I have both. I prefer Windows 7. For the record I also have Vista and that is my main working system. It gives me no problems.

Back to this IE problem. You say little about the computer itself so guidance can only be generic, but here goes;

1] Virus or other malware damage. All Windows systems that are internet capable need a firewall as well as anti-virus and anti-malware protection. My first step would be to scan for viruses and other malware.

2] Has this IE ever worked? If so, what has changed since then?

3] Try "Internet Explorer (No Add-ons)" from the Start menu bubble > All Programs > Accessories > System Tools.

This attempts to run IE in it's own Safe Mode without any extras like add-ons, 3rd party toolbars, plugins, etc. If IE opens in it's Safe Mode then the problem points to a bad or infected add-on. Goto IE > Tools > Manage Add-ons and disable them all.

4] If IE works in it's Safe Mode but you cannot disable the add-ons, close it down, goto the Control Panel > Internet Options, then the Advanced tab, and click the Reset button. This may remove everything from IE and returns it to default. Beware, this also removes all Favorites, history, cookies, and any saved web site logins.

See if any of that helps.

By the way, I would also recommend downloading and installing another browser, just for such occasions as this.

Mark