Greetings everyone,   I am writing to you from our local library because my PC is having a problem.   I have an HP/Compaq SR1850NX desktop with Windows XP Media SP2. Although SP3 is available, it wouldn't load due to a conflict with the AMD64. And, although there was a downloadable fix for that, I didn't get the fix downloaded.   I use Yahoo for e-mail.  For quite a while, Yahoo has been recommending an update to my browser to Internet Explorer 8.  On April 28th, I received a notification from Windows Update to download Internet Explorer 8 which I did from Microsoft's downloads website ... but ... after I installed the download, I had a problem.   When I attempted to connect to the Internet, the IE window flashed quickly on the screen and then flashed off the screen.  Even though I am actively connected to the Internet, the IE window will not stay active on the screen --- therefore --- I cannot use the brower to get to Yahoo (etc.).   I hope that one of you understands what I am trying to describe and has an idea as to the root of the problem and/or can suggest a fix for it.   I use Norman Antivirus, Norman Ad-Aware, Norman Ad-Watch and have run all scans and there isn't anything found.   I use TimeWarner RoadRunner broadband cable and a router.  The router serves as a firewall because I don't use wireless.  I also have the free ZoneAlarm for controlling application software access permission to the Internet.   Thanks in advance for your consideration of my problem and any help you can offer.  In the meantime, have a great day.   Carol