Can't download/save files (WXP-Home)

[khburton]

My on-line bank offers downloads but when selected the screen goes straight to file download without asking me if I want to open or save file download. The screen then shows a file downloading without size, speed or estimated time information and nothing else happens. I have left it running for ages and I have broadband but the download never completes. It used to work fine and the problem has emerged at the same time as my homepage being swithced at start up and lots of unwanted pages coming up when I am in the middle of working on the internet.

Any help gratefully received but please be aware I know very little about computers!