FireFox works fine; IE7 cannot connect to internet

Firefox works as usual.
Network Magic shows a good connection; the internet speed test gives normal readings.
However, IE 7 will not connect. I get the message "Internet Explorer cannot display the webpage". Also, Microsoft Update cannot connect. I have tried the following:
- rebooted many times
- reinstalled IE 7
- repaired & reset WinSock
I don't really care about IE, but not being able to update Windows is a problem.
Any suggestions will be appreciated.

 

Open IE. Go to File and make sure Work Offline is not checked.

 

Also check your firewall.

 

"Work Offline" is not checked.
Firewalls are disabled.
What next?

 

Two thoughts:

Tools --> Internet Options

On the 'Connections' tab, under 'LAN Settings' ensure that no proxy has been setup. (ie. uncheck the 'Use a proxy server for your LAN' box)

Also try disabling add-ons by either using IE7's 'Safe Mode' or going into normal mode IE, opening internet options, selecting the 'Programs' tab, and disabling everything under the 'Manage Add-ons' button. If you have to resort to this step, and find it successful, you can start re-enabling the add-ons one-by-one until you find the problem.

 

Well... if you seriously don't care about IE, then try this for Windows updates:

http://windizupdate.com/