Problem with network/DSL hanging when accessing videos online

I actually had the following problem under Win 2000. I recently
upgraded to XP, hasn't helped, but maybe someone can tell me what's
going on.

Basically, when I try to view videos on CNN through my browser (any
browser -- Firefox, IE, etc.), either the video doesn't run at all or
hangs after a few minutes -- and I lose my internet connection. I
have DSL from Verizon, and have to turn off the router and shut down
the computer -- then reboot, turn router back on -- to get a
connection back. (I tried various solutions -- just turn off the
router, turn off the modem, reboot computer, etc., etc. Finally found
that I had to follow the solution indicated.)

I have a homebrew computer with an ASUS A8N-E motherboard, with an
onboard Ethernet card. The motherboard also has some kind of onboard
electronics (NVIDIA nForce Networking Controller, I think) that
contributes to firewall protection, and it came with its own custom
firewall software that ties into the firewall hardware. It's called
the Active Armor Secure Networking Engine firewall, along with the
Forceware Network Access Manager, all from NVIDIA Corporation.

I have a Linksys Router and a Westell 2400 modem.

I don't know if the problem exists with other video feeds from other
news sources, I haven't tried them, just CNN. Any suggestions or
hints as to how to fix things to be able to get the CNN videos would
be much appreciated.