can't connect with IE or use Outlook Express

[susieb19]

I have windows XP home edition. About a week ago, I started receiving error messages that I could not connect using IE. (I have whatever the latest version is) I went through a couple of lengthy troubleshooting sessions with someone at their support site, but to no avail. Yesterday, I found that I could not connect to my email via Outlook or Outlook Express. I have a feeling that these are related occurences, but do not know what to do. I have been using Firefox to connect to the internet, which covers most situations, although not quite as convenient at times. I can check my email through my servers web page, again, not too convenient. Any suggestions? I am really frustrated with Microsoft products.

[PhilliePhan]

Without knowing the specific error, it is difficult to diagnose problem.

Often, though, issues like this can result from poorly configured Firewalls or other security tools.

Can you give more info?

[susieb19]

when I try to connect with OE I get the message: The server responded with an error. Account: 'mail.bellsouth.net', Server: 'mail.bellsouth.net', Protocol: POP3, Server Response: '-ERR AVG POP3 Proxy Server: Cannot connect to the mail server!', Port: 110, Secure(SSL): No, Server Error: 0x800CCC90, Error Number: 0x800CCC90

When I try to connect to IE I get a white page with the message that the webpage cannot be displayed. I have tried the troubleshooter which reset winsock (whatever that means) but it didn't help. I use AVG and I have windows firewall. If there is more info that you need, I will try to find it. Thanks

[PhilliePhan]

when I try to connect with OE I get the message: The server responded with an error. Account: 'mail.bellsouth.net', Server: 'mail.bellsouth.net', Protocol: POP3, Server Response: '-ERR AVG POP3 Proxy Server: Cannot connect to the mail server!', Port: 110, Secure(SSL): No, Server Error: 0x800CCC90, Error Number: 0x800CCC90

Hi Susie,

I think this is an error with AVG Anti-virus and it's e-mail scanning. It sounds very similar to the permissions issues that AVG has with ZoneAlarm Firewall. Are you positive ZoneAlarm is not installed? (sorry- had to ask)
-- Did AVG just update?

Have a look at this document. It will tell you how to configure your firewall (whatever you are running) with AVG AV:
http://free.grisoft.com/softw/70free...gd_en_71_4.pdf

Incidentally, all things considered, you may want to upgrade from the built-in Windows Firewall to ZoneAlarm Free - It is a major upgrade!

-- Let us know if the above helps.

PP