Oh, and profound gratitude to all the nice geeky types who suggested what to do for my internet problem. ... The non-loading issue is considerably improved, if not entirely addressed, and I live in hope of further amelioration as more anti-spy-ware joins the ranks.

Spyware infestation. ey? If symptoms persist, an OS reinstall followed by firewall and anti virus may be needed. And stay away from Internet Exploder as much as possible. Failing that, take the PC out back and shoot it.