Help-LSP outdated...don't know what to do

I have a Dell Inspiron 1501 running Vista Basic OS

To begin...I am pretty computer illiterate but not a dolt, overall. I started suddenly having issues accessing websites a couple of days ago and when I ran the diagnostic option...it said that the layered service protection needed up dated. I have tried to reset the winsock thingy (advised by someone who knows computers) and that worked briefly for 2 websites, however, that is not working any longer. I can access my email and the local paper site but other than that, nothing. I have since scanned my computer for spy/malware, deleted some files that were tainted, but to no avail. I also cannot update the anti-spy software b/c I can't connect to that site. I read some where that I would most likely have to reinstall the OS, is this true? And wouldn't this totally wipe my computer clean? I have seen some similar postings but they didn't seem to get resolved. Could this be the internet provider's issue?

Any suggestions would be very appreciated.

Thanks a bunch.
Rhowdy