Internet Explorer cannot display the webpage

[lowzeewee]

Today, I've been getting the 'Internet Explorer cannot display the webpage' page each time I've tried accessing my Hotmail email inbox through Messenger. I then tried accessing it via the Hotmail website, but the same page came up for www.hotmail.com. This same problem also presented itself on some websites I visit, though others I am able to access normally.

Sometimes, 'The address is not valid' comes up instead.

I use IE7. Help!

[Andrew]

Probably an issue with your internet connection.

To rule out your web browser, you could try firefox or opera and see if the same problem exists.

I presume you have restarted your computer, and maybe your router or modem (internet device?)?

[lowzeewee]

The problem has cleared. I didn't restart my computer or router, but it is fine now.

Anyway, how do I check if people are illegally tapping into my broadband internet?

[Andrew]

Is it wireless? If so it is easy for people to tap into it, unless you have lots of passwords/security.

How exactly do you think people are tapping into your broadband internet? There most likely are tools.

[lowzeewee]

Yep, it's wireless. There are no obvious signs to point me towards thinking people are tapping into my broadband internet, but I am just wondering if its possible for me to check if there indeed are people who are doing so.

[Timenn]

What brand of router do you use? It can be different per brand to check.

Default it is logging in first by entering the router's (internal) IP in your browser. Here you can see the router configuration. Look for an option like DHCP Client Table.

What type of wireless security do you use?

[Andrew]

If your wireless connection is not password protected, then anyone can connect to it.

I could walk by your place with my wifi laptop and connect. And possibly do bad things to your router/computer.

There is WPA password protection which is good basic protection.

If you have a router make sure to enable it. I have wireless router in my bedroom that connects to a desktop downstairs. I put password on it in case someone tries to connect to my internet connection. I know near university campus where lots of students live there are lots of unprotected sources so people simply connect to them and use other peoples bandwidth.