Windows 8 Web pages won't load, certain programs won't run...

It sounds like there may be an issue preventing web browsers and programs from running or updating on your friend's Windows 8.1 computer, even though they can connect to the internet. Here are some steps you can guide your friend through to troubleshoot and potentially resolve this issue: 1. Check Network Connection: - Ensure that the internet connection is stable and working properly by trying to access different websites through various browsers. 2. Restart the Computer: - Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve temporary issues. Ask your friend to restart the computer to see if that helps. 3. Run Network Troubleshooter: - Windows has a built-in Network Troubleshooter that can help diagnose and fix common network connection problems. - Go to Settings -> Network & Internet -> Network troubleshooter, and follow the on-screen instructions. 4. Check Firewall and Antivirus Software: - Temporarily disable any third-party firewall or antivirus software to see if they are causing the issue. Sometimes, security programs can block internet access or prevent programs from running. 5. Use Safe Mode with Networking: - Boot the computer into Safe Mode with Networking to see if the issue persists. This helps determine if a third-party application or service is causing the problem. - Press F8 during startup to access Advanced Boot Options and select Safe Mode with Networking. 6. Reset Winsock and TCP/IP Stack: - Open Command Prompt as an administrator and run the following commands one by one: - netsh winsock reset - netsh int ip reset - Restart the computer after running these commands. 7. Check for Windows Updates: - Make sure Windows is up to date by checking for and installing any available updates. This can address known issues and improve system performance. 8. Perform System Restore: - If the issue started recently, consider using System Restore to revert the system back to a point where everything was working fine. - Go to Control Panel -> Recovery -> Open System Restore. If these steps do not resolve the issue, it may be helpful to seek assistance from a local IT technician who can further diagnose and troubleshoot the computer in person.