how do I find out what programs are trying to acces the internet through my comp

[SuperDave]

and can't wait to make it my default browser again, but do you think it is unsafe? I

I really can't say anything about Google Chrome. You should post this question on the software forum. I'm sure you will get many opinions there.

Also, just out of curiosity, what browser do you use?

I use IE 8 as my default but occasionally I use FireFox.

I would appreciate having an alternative (other than firefox and internet explorer).

You could always try Opera.