From my basic computer awareness, I think my problem is Vista. And I'm sure its something simple like a driver compatibility issue but thats why you are all here to help me out!

Here's the deal. I have I new laptop, an Acer Aspire 5720, Intel core 2 duo processor with ...1.8GHz, 800MHz FSB, 2MB L2 cache and so on, the laptop was bought with Vista so I dont think its like my computer is choking on Vista or anything.
I also have the Tune Up 2007 Utilities program which I've run to fix any registry or hard disk issues and to optimise all settings for the way in which I want the computer to run, which is basically just for performance rather than appearance on a home computer used for internet predominantly.
So what happens is, I'm on the internet with an external modem DSL connection and maybe twice or three times a day the internet will just stop working. Not disconnect, just stop working. I can't disconnect and reconnect because when I open control panel it freezes, I open task manager and all attemps to close the unresponding control panel window doesnt work, my 'connect to the internet' icon is unresponsive when I try to click on the status to try and disconnect it or atleast see how I'm sending and receiving info. The only thing I can do is restart. I mean I know that if the internet becomes responsive and you are downloading something to pause all tasks and see if that works, but I do and it doesnt help. I'm also using Firefox, I mean its better than IE right?
I was thinking maybe my modem needs a Vista driver? Or something? Its wierd because I have a DSL modem bought directly from my ISP like a few weeks back, so it should be Vista compatible right? My modem is a BAUDTEC brand, if that helps you guys diagnose the prob.
Any more info needed?
Any suggestions would be hugely appreciated! Thanks soo much!
