The problem you are having is likely due to changes that affect your Internet connection for secure transmissions. These settings can be changed by updates to Windows.

To check your TLS (transport layer security) settings:

1. Close the TaxAct program or webpage.
2. In the taskbar at the bottom of your computer screen, click in the field that says Type here to search, then type "Internet Options", and click Open.
3. In the window that appears, in the top menu, click Advanced.
4. Scroll to the bottom of the Settings section.
5. Make sure the box next to Use TLS 1.2 is checked. Also make sure that no other TLS box is checked, and that no SSL (secure sockets layer) boxes are checked (click the Checkbox(es) to check and uncheck).
6. If you made changes, you need to click Apply to save them, then click OK to close the window.

You can also try changing your browsing history settings:

1. In the Internet Options window, in the top menu, click General.
2. In the Browsing history section, make sure the checkbox next to Delete browsing history on exit is checked, then click Delete (click the Checkbox to check or uncheck).
   
3. In the Delete Browsing History window that appears, make sure the box next to Form data is checked, then click Delete (click the Checkbox to check or uncheck).
4. Click Apply to save any changes, then click Ok.

You can also review your LAN (local area network) settings:

1. In the Internet Options window, in the top menu, click Connections, then click LAN settings.
2. In the window that appears, make sure all of the boxes are unchecked (click the Checkbox to check or uncheck).
3. Click Ok to close the window, then click Apply (if it is not greyed out), and click Ok.

The problem could be momentary, for example due to a wireless connection (wireless connections are not perfect). If the problem persists, you may need to check Windows network connection, user account permissions, Internet security zone or Windows firewall settings, or the settings of any security or personal firewall software you have.

The problem could also be due to your router and you may need to consult help or resources about the router administration. Any of these can block certain programs or types of Internet traffic, so that you may be able to use the Internet with other programs in some ways. Sometimes rebooting the computer, or router, can restore the connection configuration.