98se DSL troubles

[Urge]

I recently reinstalled 98se and also upgraded from dialup to DSL. The reinstall went fine thru updates and until I installed the software for the DSL. Now system is VERY unstable, various files lock up and system crashes sometimes multiple times a day. When I went to run the Verizon CD the first thing it wanted was ie6 (the CD said to download it)and since I had just reinstalled 98se all I had was ie5. I was unable to go online because I didn't have a working modem and from another machine all I could do was download and install immediately. I talked to tech support at Verizon and they all told me (3 different techs) that I had to install ie6 before I could setup DSL. Eventually the 3rd tech I spoke with helped me configure a LAN connection for the DSL modem and I began downloading ie6 at dialup speeds. While I was waiting I got bored and right clicked the verizon CD and found ie6 on the CD (3 techs AND the CD told me to download it and it was on the CD all along... mumble, grumble, yadda yada yadda ). I installed this version but later noticed that under the about tab it said something about a customized version. Could this be screwing up my machine? If anyone knows how to download and save (but not install immediately) ie6 I would be greatful for the info. Hopefully someone else has had the same experience when upgrading to verizon DSL 768kb speed. I am wondering if 98se2me or one of the other mods to 98se on this forum will resolve this issue or should I be asking this ? somewhere else? On a related note, I installed directx 9 and have since read that v.8 might be more appropriate for 98se, any opinions? Thanks, urge