The trick I use is to install
Google Chrome and allow absolutely no add-ins,
especially Flash. For the occasions when I need to allow add-ins, mostly for video, I use
Internet Explorer with Flash and other add-ins enabled.
Flash seems to be the major culprit in browser crashes and slow loads. CruisersForum.com works just fine with zero add-ins. Plus, Chrome seems way, way faster than I.E. for typical web browsing. Chrome downloads and installs quickly and effortlessly.