IE 7-non browsing browser

[eshort]

equipment: Dell Optiplex with P4 3.4 --D CPU/ 1 gb ram/ winxo sp3

problem: using verizon vz access (wireless connection to internet): VZW connects but IE7 will not go to an url: error message received= "internet explorer can not display the webpage". Am on my 3rd usb modem..the first two failed within 72 hours(using Pantech usa175 now).

DISCUSSION:

CORRECTIVE attempts so far: (a) reinstalled modem; (b) reinstalled vzw access program software; (c) checked usb ports (all ok); modem diagnostics indicates modem working ok.

I even erased IE7-rolled to IE6--same problem--except suddently...IE(6) is working???!!!!

I tapped the modem (to see if there may be an electrical intermittent)..no effect.

While IE6 workinmg now--im afraid it will quit again and ask for advise re: possible causes/permanent solutions.

as an aside: i notice the thruput is lower when using this modem with the p4-d cpu than with other computers which have a P4 2.2(single core) and even a PIII-866. whyb wld this modem run slower on a pentium D.

Naturally: verizon "customer service" has no answers and their proposed solution to the "non browsing browser" did not work ..I asked if they had a "patch" for this modem (for use with a Pent4- d cpu--their answer was from a script saying "it must be a computer issue with your machine"(sic)= they had NO clue as to what was wrong-and most likely-what I was asking!

weired--itsv as if the machine is beset with gremlins(virus check via AVG shows no problems).

THANX!!