Dialup or cable modem?
I installed SpywareXterminator from Stompsoft, it's an anti-spyware programme. Worth every penny. Another programme I had only picked up 2 problems. After I installed the programme and ran it, it found over 843 pests that the other one couldn't find. Check it out.
Cable, with a combination wireless/LAN router.One 98 machine is wired in one is on wireless and still the XP one is the only one that keeps dropping off.