Q. Something uses up my system resources gradually, until the problem-causing program finally crashes.
Here's the catch; That program is Internet Explorer.
A: Internet Explorer has a memory problem. It leaks 192 bytes of memory every time you refresh a Web page or change a Web page. Each leak lowers system resources until there aren't enough to keep IE afloat. So, it crashes. It's not happening with Netscape because Netscape doesn't have the same leak.
Now, here's where I should be able to give you the simple fix. Unfortunately, there isn't one. Microsoft has what it thinks is a fix, and it's testing it. But it has not been fully regression tested, meaning it might not work properly on any but the newest programs.
The fix will be released as a patch or incorporated in the next service release, according to Microsoft.
Until then, rebooting will restore
all the memory.
UPDATE:
Internet Explorer 5.5
MICROSOFT HAS FINALLY released Service
Pack 1 for Internet Explorer 5.5. The new download promises to fix a handful
of mostly minor bugs, including memory leaks. It also adds a bunch of cool
new features. The new stuff includes a print preview mode showing how a
Web page will look when printed, an auto-correction feature to fix your
typing when you're trying to punch in lor addresses, and improved offline
browsing capabilities. Service Pack 1 also provides a new auto search function
that allows you to type queries: directly into Internet Explorer's address
bar, and the Content Advisor lets you set limits on the kind: of sites
your kids can access. Find the download along with the usual instructions
at www.microsoft.com/downloads/release.asp?releaseid=25479