Try couple more things...
Download, install, and run LSP-Fix: http://www.cexx.org/lspfix.htm
Restart computer, and SEE, if it helped.
If not...
Download, install, and run WinSock XP Fix: http://www.snapfiles.com/get/winsockxpfix.html
Restart computer, and check again.ok wierd since im STEPPING in a bit late but here goes!

ok so you say its the same no matter which card you use, WIRED or wireless. so throw out the tcp issue since both cards use different tcp connections. its a program pure and simple. you installed an AOL update. try disabling the AOL and use just internet explorer and outlook for your email. my wife gets the same PROBLEM with AOL but without it, it works just fine. try that and then get back to us.So I just got home from a vacation, and I tried the two programs Broni suggested. I'm still having the same exact issue. WinsockXP fix wouldn't work because I have vista.

ghrark - I deleted AOL, and then reinstalled the operating system. Same issues. I can't believe I'm still struggling!!!

Reinstalled, how? Over the top, or clean install?Yes, and if it wasn't a clean install of the operating system, was AOL completely uninstalled? I know from past experience that it can be difficult to completely remove.Clean install. I formated the hard drive.

Perhaps SP1 will help me?I doubt.

Have you ever uninstalled/reinstalled ethernet card driver? Maybe ethernet card is going south...borrow a card from a friend.
Also this WinsockFix should work with Vista: http://www.softpedia.com/get/Tweak/Network-Tweak/WinSockFix.shtmlOpen the properties to your network card. Look for the configure button and than the Advanced tab. In the list you should see something like Media Type. CLICK it and than go to the drop down and pick Auto Select. The vendors name things a little differently so it maybe called something else.

What kind of network card do you have?
broadcom 440x