Very simple-Under Tools/Internet options in the first paragraph you can
manually enter an address, or just go to the page you prefer and select "Use
current".
That said, I always set up my dial up clients with "About blank" so they
don't get error messages when opening IE off line.
I also do this with broad band clients who understand that it gives them
maximum flexibility and speed when opening IE preparatory to surfing the web
(Just select a site from the favorites menu and go).In my own case I have
created a home page with my preferred links and set it as the default.
****************************************************************************
************************************
As an Opera user this has never been issue as far as I am
concerned but a contact is annoyed by the <about:blank> and
has asked if I know how to get the page in place without
<about:blank>

               The NOSPIN Group Promotions is now offering
              Mandrake Linux or Red Hat Linux CD sets along
             with the OpenOffice CD...  at a great price!!!
             http://freepctech.com/goodies/promotions.shtml