Vista - Internet problems

I have frequent internet problems. Either you get "website unavailable", which if you hit refresh several times- sometimes resolves itself. Other times a computer restart is the only fix. Even other times, the "online" light on my modem goes off and I have to unplug the modem -- wait -- and sometimes that fixes it. How do I know if I need a new modem or if it is a software problem? I am using Internet Explorer, Vista and a Motorola modem.

Hi Sarah and Welcome to the Forum. Seems like an intermittent problem. Did you speak to your ISP about it? Also, which antivirus program are you using?

Yes I have spoken to them more than once. They always reply that things look ok from their end as far as my service goes. I am using Trend Micro.

When you turn on your computer, at the manufacturer logo(before Vista logo), keep tapping F8 key and then select safe mode with networking option. then see if you have the same issue. Likely, its been caused by Trendmicro. but doing the above mentioned step will confirm what's causing the issue.

I'll try that right now and will let you know!

Ok -- tried safe mode. Immediately internet did not work. Any other suggestions?

Ty safe mode with networking.

That did work. Should I stay in this mode to see if I have any more problems? If no more problems, do you suggest I switch antivirus? If so, what do you recommend?

Also, just noticed I am running Vista 32 not 64. Don't know if that makes a difference or not.

Thanks

32 bit or 64 bit wont make any difference. Your Trend Micro firewall is causing this issue. Just uninstall trend micro and reinstall it and update it. It should start working.

Thanks so much for your help!! I will give it a shot.