Does Windows Auto Block URLs?

[joshd2012]

First off, I'm using the latest version of Firefox, but the problem is occuring with IE as well. I am using WinXP x64.

I keep losing URLs that I can access. The first noticable one was 1UP.com. Then things like SonyStyle.com and TireRack.com became blocked as well. Firefox gives me a timeout error while IE tells me it doesn't exist at all. I know these sites are working, in fact I can access them on the other computer on my home network (running Firefox and WinXP Pro).

And yes, I have tried disabling my firewall, and checking all blocked pages in that window and they are not there.

I also had this problem a few years back on a system running Windows 98 on a different network. I just don't understand what is going on, and it is really frusterating. Anyone have any ideas?

 

[P0ldy]

Are you using PeerGuardian (HTTP blocking)?

Check the HOSTS file.

Edit: and are you using a proxy?

 

[joshd2012]

I am using no blockers at all. I have both computers set up the same, except for the OS, and this computer has the problem, and the other one doesn't. What is this HOSTS file?

 

[nweaver]

spyware/AV scans? Check proxy settings, as some spyware can change these settings.

 

[sciencewhiz]

hosts file: http://elouai.com/hosts-file.php

 

[JackMDS]

You might have unwanted entires in the Host File: Windows Host File- What is it and How to Mange it?

:sun:

 

[joshd2012]

Checked the hosts file... all it has is my local host. Seems normal.

I'll run spyware tomorrow, but using Firefox, I didn't think that would be much of a problem. I'm having a brain fart, where do I check the proxy settings?

Thanks for the help everyone.

 

[P0ldy]

Tools > General > Connection (last entry in window). You should be connected directly to internet.

Are you using a router? You may have port 80 blocked for some reason on XP64 unless you're typing on here from that comp.

 

[joshd2012]

Ok, I checked and made sure I'm connected directly to the Internet... I am.

I also ran Adaware and 5 dataminers came up for IE (even though I've only used it a handful of times). Deleted those and no luck. The sites are still not accessable.

Any other ideas?

 

[imported_LoKe]

Have you contacted your ISP?

 

[joshd2012]

I don't think its a problem with my ISP. I can connect to these websites on my other computer, which is on the same connection. The only difference between the computers is the OS, I figured it has to be that.

Also, at one time I was able to connect to these pages, and then that disappeared. That is another reason why I think Windows has something to do with it.

 

[joshd2012]

BUMP!

Any more ideas? Thanks.