Windows 7 - Clearly on the Internet, but everything is saying I'm not?

For some reason, even though I'm obviously on the internet while writing this, whenever I try to download something, or run an online tool, it says that I'm not connected to the internet, I can't do anything. I can't install a game or use netalzyer or anything.

The weird part is that google chrome is letting me access the internet but when I tried to use internet explorer it couldn't connect to anything, and diagnosing the problem it said it couldn't find one. I constantly have the "Get Online" thing on my start list, but when I use it it says I'm already online. I've tried resetting my router, checked my proxy/lan settings and a bunch of other random stuff. Nothing is working.

I recently reloaded my computer because I've been having serious problems with freezes, before the reload everything connection wise was fine.

Please help.
Thanks,
Cameren.

Did you install any third party firewall software? Or any other software like AV software that might also be blocking ports?

Frequent they will block 100% net access for anything other than direct web surfing (port 80 out) till you configure them. That'll cause this exact problem.

If you JUST reinstalled, I might take the time to completely resinstall again, install NOTHING and see if the problem still exists. That would at least rule out any locally installed software. If it's not cuased by software... could be an issue with the network adapter or driver possibly?

(I would mention strict router settings as a possibility but you said you checked that)

Welcome to Seven Forums,

In addition, what type of Security Software are you using?

You have mentioned Chrome, does everything works in Chrome and not in IE?

Can you replicate your issue in Safe Mode with Networking? Restart your computer, tap F8 and select this option.

Also, please provide us an ipconfig /all output for review.
How to run an ipconfig /all?

I fixed this problem with a quick reload of my OS

As your installing new software, be sure to take time to retest to see if the problem comes back, that way, if it happens again, you'll know what to blame