You could try running an ethernet cable between your laptop and router and disable the wifi see if the problem persists, if so, maybe try another browser, google chrome? or jus plain old IE, failing that if its not too much trouble a fresh install maybe even if its on another HDD.
There was a wicked little program that i used to use called 'WinSockFix', free download, it basically will renew your ip address DNS all internet related things, give that a go it wont do any harm.
If i think of anything else ill let you know.