Internet Explorer won't open

When I try to get online, internet explorer just freezes at "connecting" and goes no further. I have to go through "Task manager" to close it eventually so that I can use the computer at all. It's not a problem with my internet connection (I don't think!) because my msn messenger is running fine...I just can't use IE. This is a huge problem because IE is the only way I have to actually get online on that computer. I am currently typing this on my laptop, which is connected wirelessly via a neighbor's internet. The signal is weak and I can't download anything, so it is virtually impossible for me to run any of the "Try me first" steps. What do I do?

 

Sorry I didn't explain it well. I have cable internet on my desktop computer, but for my laptop I use the neighbor's wireless.

BUT I found a trouble-shooting guide online and fixed the problem. Thanks!!

 

Care to share how you fixed this, so that anyone else with a similar problem might read your solution and benefit from it to?

And, of course, also for other readers of this thread, using a neighbor's wireless is totally legal when you have their prior permission, as I'm sure you do