Internet Explorer URL blocking

Make sure Content Filtering isn't turned on.

Also check your hosts file.

Is this a work computer or one where Administrative authority may have set parameters to limit access?  Parental controls in place, or the like?  The URL may be helpful if all the above are NO and problem persists.  Also helps to know what firewalls and other "protectors" you have running as well as which Browser and version in terms of updates.

same with just installed fire fox
able to ping websites

If IIS related, this may help.
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/907273

just a computer connected to home router - happens with all urls - using windows firewall which I switched off to check

Recently removed heaps of viruses and spyware

Heh.  Reformat your harddrive and re-install your operating system.

stefanomarco,

1. Clear your DNS cache.  Go to Start > Run and type CMD
and hit OK.
At the command prompt, type ipconfig /flushDNS
and hit OK.

2. Clear your cache.  Go to Tools > Internet Options > General tab.  Under Temporary Internet Files, click "Delete Files" button. Also click "Delete Cookies" button. Click OK.

3. If no joy, check if your PC is blocking the site.  Do a search for HOSTS file and open it with an editor like Notepad. Delete any line that has the blocked site in it.

HOSTS file is located in
Windows XP      =      C:\WINDOWS\SYSTEM32\DRIVERS\ETC
Windows 2K     =     C:\WINNT\SYSTEM32\DRIVERS\ETC
Win 98/ME     =     C:\WINDOWS

It is a hidden file. Go to any folder and select Tools > Folders Options > View. Check "Show hidden files and folders". Click OK.

4. If you are using Internet Explorer, check if the site is restricted or blocked.  Go to Tools > Internet Options > Security. Hightlight Restricted Sites and see if the blocked site is located there.

Also under Content tab > Content Advisor, check if the site is restricted there. Remove it.

5. Check if antispyware, antivirus, or firewall is blocking the website.

Turned on guest account - ie and firefox works perfectly

Stefano:

Good.  's why I asked :)

I'd seriously suggest reformatting and starting over.  If you cleaned off a whole lot of viruses and spyware, you're going to spend more time cleaning more and hoping you're not rootkitted than it would take to re-install.

stefanomarco,

Create a new user account should fix the problem without formating.  Guest account is like a new account without privileges.

Problem Report
Access denied to system because of URL Filter Configuration, while attempting to retrieve the URL:

Message ID:
FILTER_DENIED

Problem Description

Your system was configured to deny access to this URL.

Possible Problem Cause

Request denied, as specified in the local filter list configuration.

Possible Solution

Contact your network support team if this problem persists

I'd have a talk with my 16 year old, LOL.  Seriously, you've gotten tons of insight from others, and you may opt to do a clean install; but if not, listening further.  Lots of tools and fixes that wouldn't require a new install, but then when the 16 year old logs back in what?????

Anyway, listening when time permits with best wishes fo you.

Asta

Exact message above

WOW, can't keep up.  When I was here talking, I was alone and in the meantime, lots more have added value.  Logging off and getting back to work.  Again, I sure wouldn't start all over, but NOT FOR POINTS; count me out here for any points, not interested in that.  Very interested, though, in a quality solution for you.  ":0) Asta

War1 has good intentions for solving your problem (just as he almost always has good answers!), but you're really shooting yourself in the foot by not re-installing.  Anytime you find "a bunch of viruses and spyware," it's usually safest to start over and then practice better computer afterwards :)

Thanks All :)