Problems with standard network

[smlunatick]

My PC is crazy! I have a wired connection to my router and it works
constantly. I also have a VPN connection for my office, which I use
now and then. For some reason now, whenever my PC has an application
requesting an Internet access, the VPN connection may activate. I
have removed this VPN "connectoid" but my XP Pro then ffinds my back-
up "PPPoE" connectoid. I have set IE to "never dial a connection."

What do I need to check next?

 

[Anteaus]

First and foremost, Malware.

http://malwarebytes.com

http:/lavasoftusa.com

 

[smlunatick]

First and foremost, Malware.

http://malwarebytes.com

http:/lavasoftusa.com

Already done this. No malware is on the system. Still the PC will
activate a "connectoid" periodically. It had been previously posted
that sometimes XP will request a "Connect to" connection. I even
tried Kelly's tweaks (Kelly's Korner) to "disable" this, without
success.