Shoutbox

I did a google search and found some info about clearing the Cookies and Temp Files and about doing 'Start > Run > regsvr32 softpub.dll'.
MSN pages require a lot of cookie acceptance and use of active-X controls. Your security settings for your browser (or in XP) may have been changed so you need to review them.

I usually start by checking my HOSTS file but you've not given me any information about your computer, such as operating system, make and model number, type of internet connection, etc..?

The HOSTS file on Windows XP is at C:\Windows\System32\Drivers\ETC directory and it has no file extension.. Rename the file to HOSTS.txt and open it. Look to see if hotmail.com is listed and if it is, delete that entry.

If you don't find anything there, then look to other locations that could be blocking it.. Do you have an antispyware program which "immunizes" against such things.. If so, look there.

Next, because malware can cause this type of issue, try the steps below to download, install, update, then run a full system scan with the free antispyware tool below:

Download the SuperAntispyware program and the manual updater from the links below. Install SuperAntispyware first, then run the manual updater to bring the program up to date. If you can't download and install it directly from the problem machine, download it on a friend or family member's computer, then copy the files to a flash drive or CD, then transfer it to the problem computer.:

SuperAntispyware
http://www.superantispyware.com/

SuperAntispyware Manual Updater
http://www.superantispyware.com/definitions.html