Vista - network error with internet downloads

I am receiving the following message with all downloads that i am attempting,

Either 'A network error occured while accessing this file on the Internet' or
'Internet cannot download this file, and the connection with the server was
reset'

Browsing is not an issue, and my connection seems fine. I am connecting
wirelessly through a netgear DG834G router/modem. Have checked firewalls and
even disabled these on both Vista and Norton AV to determine whether this is
an issue.

If anyone is able to help this would be highly appreciated. thanks
Cletus