iBook freezes every time i click "Network"

up to this point, i have had no problems recognizing other computers on my network or viewing the "Network" window. now, when i go to Finder --> Go --> Network it gives me the spinning beachball and just freezes my desktop. the network window never even opens. all i get is the beachball. i can open browsers and surf and open other programs, but my desktop and my Finder is frozen.

i have installed all of the latest software updates, reset the PMU and have repaired permissions. i don't think i have installed any new software lately.

my PC desktop still recognizes my iBook and i can transfer files (albeit very slowly).

anyone have any ideas????

by the way, what is the key combination to bring up the "Force Quit" window??


thanks

holden