Every time I boot up my computer, I get a balloon message saying that my computer may be at risk because there is no firewall. After several minutes of doing nothing, the firewall comes up and the warning disappears.
2nd problem: whenever I open IE8 for the first time in the morning, I get a message stating that my last session was interrupted and do I want to restore it or go to the Home Page. No matter what I choose, it goes to my Home Page.
How do I get rid of these two problems? Thanks for the help and Happy New Year to all!! :)

Go to SUPERAntiSpyware.com | Remove Malware | Remove Spyware - AntiMalware, AntiSpyware, AntiAdware! and download the free program. Run it. What are you using for antivirus? IF you are using windows XP IE8 is not the one that you should be using for internet. You should go back to 7.

I am using IE8. Will take your suggestion to go back to IE7 although I do likie IE8 better. Will try your other suggestions. I am using free AVG for anti-virus for antivirus.