Configuration setting in Internet Explorer 7 can be the source of a few issues including poor performance, error messages and even browser unresponsiveness. But IE7 can be optimized or reseted in order to resolve problems.

One of the most frequent causes of slow performance and error messages are corrupted temporary Internet files or cached information. In this regard, Microsoft advised IE7 users to clear the browser's cached data. Via Tools you will be able to access the Delete option under Browsing History. Click Delete All and make sure to Also delete files and settings stored by add-ons check box. When you hit OK all the cached data in IE7 will be cleared.

Simply test Internet Explorer 7 and revisit the web pages that generated problems to see if the problem persists. If it does, then you also have to consider other causes. Performance is affected by the browser's security settings. If IE7's security settings are exaggeratedly restrictive then the behavior of the browser and website rendering might be directly impacted. Make your way from Tools, Internet Options, the Security tab and then select Reset all zones to default level. If the security settings were the cause of the problem, while running IE7 in the default security configuration you shouldn't experience any issues.

Additionally, you might also consider that a third-party product is affecting IE7 functionality. In this context, the easiest way to tell is by entering Internet Explorer (No Add-Ons) in the Search Box integrated in the Start Menu and clicking on the result. If indeed an add-on is responsible for slow performance, then you can reset IE7 to its default settings via Tools, Internet Options, Advanced tab, and under Reset Internet Explorer Settings, press Reset.

An alternative solution is to track down exactly the add-on that is causing problems. You will have to access Tools, Manage Add-ons, Enable or Disable Add-ons. From here, you will be able to turn on or off each individual add-on to identify the problem.