Windows 7: Widows Explorer internet access

Hello All
Sorry for the repost but cannot find my original post
I was notified by "AVG" that "Windows Exploer" was trying to access the
internet. Could you tell me why it would have to access the internet and
how can I verify what "Windows" programs need to or do access the internet.



Many Thanks

Due to the way that different programs are integrated in Windows, sometimes other programs can show up as Windows Explorer processes and vice-versa. Some examples are Internet Explorer, WMP, ...

Additionally, when Windows Explorer is not configured to "Launch folder windows in a seperate process", this can happen whenever Internet Explorer is launched.
"Launch Browser Windows in a Separate Process" Setting Is Not Available in Internet Explorer 5.01 or Internet Explorer 5.5
Also, some things that can result in Windows Explorer asking for internet access

When a new browser window is launched
When accessing bookmarks via Windows Explorer
If Active desktop is in use
When browsing network folders
If Windows Explorer is configured to view web content
If Windows Explorer is configured to launch folder windows in a separate process.

Also, check if the explorer.exe process is actually running from C:\Windows. If it is not, then it could be a virus infection.

Normally I only check if the program that is wanting access to the Internet is a trusted program or otherwise. If it is a trusted program like Windows Explorer I would grant the permission.

Great Reply's. Thank You, it helps