open a browser, either mozilla or IE.my ram looks fine,no other processes running.Ideas?Modem working.

Maybe this is why? We've heard that a million monkeys at a million keyboards could produce the complete works of Shakespeare; now, thanks to the Internet, we know that is not true

If you really expect help here then you should re-read the instructions on how to post your question. 1. Provide full details of the specs of the system 2. Was this system working properly at any time ? 3. Did you instal any new hardware/software recently that may have caused the problem? 4. Have you tried anything even a simple as SYSTEM RESTORE to resolve the issue? How do you know your modem is working? Is it internal or external? Is it dialup or ADSL/Cable? Have you looked in EVENT VIEWER to see if any errors are being reported? Have you scanned your system for virus/adware/spyware? Which version of XP are you running? Is it fully updated with SP2 and subsequent security patches etc? I used to have a signature but it disappeared and I just couldn't be bothered writing another so please feel free to ingore this.

I did virus scan,I did sytem restore(xp),checked modem.Yes this all went to pot after i got a downloader virus.How come i cant use the task manager to end tasks?ideas?Virus?

The virus has obviously done more damage to your registry than you realize. You may need to research fixes relating to the particular virus. I've not ever had an infected system to deal with so cannot guide you further. There is a security & Virus forum and if you post your problem there with a detailed description of your system, the virus you got, and the steps you have taken someone in that area may be able to help. I used to have a signature but it disappeared and I just couldn't be bothered writing another so please feel free to ingore this.

"... if you post your problem there" Well... you're expected to work with the folks offering help too, not just wander off and post somewhere else about your 'new' problem We've heard that a million monkeys at a million keyboards could produce the complete works of Shakespeare; now, thanks to the Internet, we know that is not true