Yes, I'm using a wireless router, but another computer at home
accessing the same router has no problems whatsoever.

I also don't suspect cookies to be the problem because I've not changed
any settings and it just stopped working (accessing hotmail and google)
one fine night. Besides, both IE and firefox don't work now.

I'll try to go back and try Spyware Doctor. I'll also try to get back
to your question about the startup programs.

(I'm now in my office, as i can't log into google to post questions in
here when at home. And tomorrow's a holiday here, so i'll try to get
back to you by Wednesday.)

You're right it's a weird one!