Are you getting an error message when you try to download Firefox 38? I suggest selecting from the "full" installers on this page (scroll down to your preferred language):

https://www.mozilla.org/firefox/all/

If you get an error referring to a policy, this can indicate a setting that needs to be changed in IE or in the Windows Registry.

If the system simply seems allergic to third party browsers, that can indicate a malware problem. In that case, I suggest:

(1) Open the Windows Control Panel, Uninstall a Program. After the list loads, click the "Installed on" column heading to group the infections, I mean, additions, by date. This can help surface undisclosed bundle items that snuck in with some software you agreed to install. Take out as much trash as possible here.

(2) Supplement your regular security software with the scanning/cleaning tools listed in our support article: Troubleshoot Firefox issues caused by malware. These on-demand scanners are free and take considerable time to run. If they finish quickly and especially if they require payment, you may have a serious infection. I suggest the specialized forums listed in the article in that case.

Success?

Nope does not work - and nothing added on system in the last 2 weeks

Reinstalled Firefox -- here is the error I am getting

Same as Chrome

But Internet Explorer works fine ... guess I am stuck with IE

Pretty strange is is happening to both Firefox and Chrome

You might already have encountered these articles while submitting your question, but just in case:

• Firefox and other browsers can't load websites
• Firefox can't load websites but other browsers can

So - not sure what took care of it - it may have been one of the adware programs -- but it is really odd -- thanks for your help

scott