My internet connection keeps dropping out and I have just noticed that the 'work offline' option under the 'File' menu is always ticked even though I keep turning it off. Could this cause the drop outs and how can I make sure it doesn't tick itself again, I may be doing it unwittingly.

Don't know your connection type or browser aussie1, so here are some possibles. Start > Control Panel > Network Connections. Right click on your default connection, usually Local Area Connection or Dial-up Connection if you are using Dial-up. Left click on Properties, double click on the Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) item and select the radio button that says > Obtain DNS servers automatically. Click OK twice and restart your computer. ======================================= Start > Settings > Control Panel > Internet Options > Connections > Settings > Advanced, make sure > Disconnect if idle, is unticked. ======================================== Start > Run, copy & paste > Sfc /scannow & press Enter. http://www.updatexp.com/scannow-sfc.html This will scan and restore protected system files ( which IE is )

Couple more possibles. Demystifying the Windows Registry http://www.bleepingcomputer.com/forums/Demystifying_the_Windows_Registry-tut74.html Set the GlobalUserOffline DWORD value to the value 0 in the following registry key: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\Current Version\ Internet Settings If using adsl/broadband, make sure your dial-up connection has been removed.

Thank you will try your advice and let you know Regards aussie1