This is my first time in the forum, so I will post as much info as I can.
Basically, I am unable to connect to the internet with either IE or Firefox. The connection had been working great for 2 years until 3 days ago.

I have Verizon Fios, I called Verizon, they checked my connection and said everything is fine. They ran a ping and said the connection is great. The little green lights on my router are all flashing. The tech guy told me that it is one of three problems. A virus - well for that I ran my avast software, found two viruses and deleted them. Still doesn't work. A firewall issue - the only firewall I know I have is Microsoft Windows Firewall.(although he said the modem has a firewall) I disabled it and still no internet. I think the third issue he said was the software was corrupted, and I would have to reinstall it. But this did n't make sense because neither IE or Firefox work. AOL doesn't work either, there wizard said that there were No IP routes. How could all three be corrupted. But since I don't have internet how can I load them up again.I am wondering if there is another firewall on my computer I don't know about. How would I find it, if that is the problem. Anyway, this is where I am at this point. Any help would be appreciated, I am about to call DELL for service, something I don't want to do.

Computer Specs are
Dell Dimension E510
Windows XP Service pack 2
Modem Actiontec MI424WR

I have a hunch: Type 64.233.169.104 into your browser. What happens?

Hello,

Since you have a Dell, you have two choices for a quick fix.

The first idea is to use Dell™ PC Restore by Symantec™ which exists on a hidden partition on your hard drive that contains an exact copy of your computer's original setup. This program allows you to reset your computer's operating system and software to the original state in which it was shipped to you from Dell. Instructions are here: Dell - Support

Now, the second idea would be to use the XP System Restore to "rollback" the PC to a point in time before you had this problem.

The reason I am suggesting these two options is because you stated that you removed two viruses which could have damaged many areas of your XP operating system before you removed them. So, why not just "bite the bullet" and fix it once and for all?

Just some added comments. The browser is not the same as the connection itself. When the Verizon guy mentioned corrupt software he wasn't necessarily referring to the browser. (i.e. if, say, Firefox were corrupted, IE and AOL could still work.) He may have meant any software you installed when you got your service or drivers or whatever.

That just hit me. You have Verizon and AOL? (Dump the AOL. :-)) Did you just get the Verizon?

Er... what was I saying? Oh, calling Dell may or may not be useful. Partly depends on whether this is actually related to your original computer and install that came out of Dell, and the person you happen to get, cause they don't exactly have a great customer service reputation. I'd leave that as a last resort.

I think xphelper's idea is good. Although I'd be tempted to do the XP restore first. Assuming you added any hardware or software when you got Verizon, the Dell restore to original settings won't include any of that, though of course you can reinstall that stuff when you're done.

Thanks guys, well before I read your posts, I was not happy with the Verizon answers so I called them back and I got a tech guy who seemed to know what he was talking about. He ran the usual tests, said my connection was working, but that my network card was not connecting to the router. So he suggested taking it to Best buy or circuit city to get the network card tested or perhaps buy a new network card. So I think before I start restoring my system I will do that. I actually did try and restore my system to about two weeks ago, and the wizard came back as saying that the computer was unable to restore it. I will let you know if this works, if not, then I may be doing that system restore back to its original defaults yet. Your comments were helpful thanks.

George

Run dial a fix check all the boxes and then click go. Restart your computer and try the net

Before anyone goes through all the above (restores, changing PC settings etc... ) try running a least TWO anti-virus programs.

I had this exact problem (internet connection with no broswer) it drove me crazy for almost a week until a friend tried a malware program (free) that finally found a worm/trojan. I had Norton and it didn't prevent it NOR catch it on scans.

Tom