A workaround, try another browser like Firefox or Chrome, they will all sit happily together on your system without bothering each other, and at least links should work until you get IE sorted out.
Questions;
About the upgrade. Did you scan for Windows 7 Compatibility before upgrading to Windows 7?
Did you check with the PCs maker's web site to see if there were the proper drivers for the newer OS?
That P4 might be the reason why the system is noticeably slower. It may be too underpowered for Windows 7.
Does this happen on all links? EG if you have a Google listing, does clicking any link work then?
What happens if you copy a link from an email and paste that into a new tab. Does that work?
Mark
I recently "upgraded" my XP PC , on my P4, 2gb RAM to win7 Home Premium. My computer has become noticably slower, though I like this OS andI am having issues in my early learning process. Running the IE8 when I wish to open any link it does not open.
A tab comes on the bar next to the address of the previous web but it does not open the web requested through clicking the link.An Explorer "e" shows on one side and a cross on the other side in a tab on the address bar. Nothing happens after that.
On my hotmail, that I received with a number of links to help me pursue my research . These links do not open in the usual manner i.e. clicking on the link .
Please help.
Thank you.

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