Hi Ried,
Yes so this issue was actually present (without me noticing it
) just before I started this thread with respect to ABOUT : BLANK.
Because I'd replaced my current HOSTS file with the MVPS HOST FILE when I downloaded Host.zip as part of the
http://www.techsupportforum.com/reso...-b-trojan.html thread.
Pity it prevented my IE browser accessing various links, because it did at least cut out many many adverts. Well I suppose they're not pop-ups and are from known ad servers anyway, which provide the web sites with their revenue. [Although website ads with animated graphics are so distracting!!] Is there any other ways of keeping my hosts file safe from spyware I wonder?
So Ried unless you have any further comments/measures you have to suggest, then I guess
this thread is resolved!! 
Thanks for all your help, Mark.
PS: Oh heck - just noticed my re-downloaded ieSpell has disappeared from my toolbar again. It's in my program files though!!