Outlook works but not explorer??

[PCFL]

One of my home computers is having a problem connecting to the internet for surfing. Outlook express will reach out and check mail every timme. I am working with a wireless router. I see winstock error notices. So I tried some of the suggestions like windsock repair utilities, removed explorer latest version then reinstalled, loaded firefox and it has the same problem. Cannot connect to the internet. Sooo any other suggestions? I am planning on reformatting this machine and starting from scratch with the recovery discs. It is an older Compac that has a history of problems.

Why am I able to check mail accounts but cannot ping my router or a web site ???