Thanks for all your responses. Disconnecting the modem/router didn't work, I'm afraid.
Now going to work my way through the other suggestions.
My ISP, (Bigpond) want me to run a Trace Route but claim they don't support any software that will enable me to do this.
When I signed up for this BB connection some eons ago they only supported a USB connection so as well as other possibilities I am going to reinstall my BB connection and try the Ethernet option as that is what they now suggest to new subscribers.
Once again, thanks for your thoughts.
PB
Should have mentioned, when I want to open my browser it comes up with a MSN 'runonce' blank blue page telling me to select my settings, have tried to block this and all other MS pages but it doesn't work, my selected home page,
www.bom.gov.au/weather/vic never shows up.