IE won`t go on line

I`ve been using IE 5.5 for several months and ran into this glitch just recently. I don`t recall that I have added or changed anything that would cause this change, I ran IE repair, virus scan, and didn`t change things any.
I have three "favorite" shortcuts on the desk top plus the usual blue IE globe. None of them will activate the dial up network connection. Outlook Express puts me on line just fine as long as I`m on line I can use any of the afore mentioned Icons to go to my Home page or favorite sites.
I get the error message--
The page you are looking for is currently unavailable. The Web site might be experiencing technical difficulties, or you may need to adjust your browser settings.
When I try to connect from the desktop, if OE hasn`t made the connection previously.
I`m running Windows `98 upgrade, and have 128 MB of ram and plenty of hard drive .
No killing matter but curious about what`s causing it,and what the fix is.

 

How about your internet options connections tab. Put a check mark in the "Always dial my default connection ". I'm assuming that the IE window opens but won't go anywhere when you punch on the shortcut.

 

Thanks Cuz,
It works, it works! I don`t know how it got changed, but that sure cured it.

 

Glad to help. It seems IE options sometimes get changed to coincide with patches. I guess that is what the Microsoft haters call "unstable and insecure ".