[holymoly]

Use a Hosts file (just google 'HOSTS', seriously, or go here)

Excellent advice.

As GreenAccord states, websites will appear cleaner/less cluttered, and load faster. (I.E. People on dial-up won't have to wait several minutes for those annoying shockwave/flash ads to load.)

For those interested, the MVPS HOSTS file is free, and works with all versions of Windows. It is updated about every two weeks.

Just download the ZIP, and extract the HOSTS file to the appropriate directory:

Windows XP = C:\WINDOWS\SYSTEM32\DRIVERS\ETC
Windows 2K = C:\WINNT\SYSTEM32\DRIVERS\ETC
Win 95/98/ME = C:\WINDOWS

http://www.mvps.org/winhelp2002/hosts.htm

[GreenAccord]

Thanks for the added info. I found the Hosts file functionality information right here on Free Republic about 3(?) years ago. I wouldn't surf without it.

Additionally, implementing the hosts file has virtually no effect on the way you'll read and use this site, freerepublic.com. (Except for the occassionally missing image when someone links it from a blocked site)