I actually like IE9 (work) and 10 (home), but you do have to switch on Tracking Protection. Just add EasyList and you are good to go.
What I dislike: Firefox. Used to be great, but resource-wise it's shite now and slow as molasses.
One good thing about FF and Chrome: the HideMyAss plugin to proxy yourself. Especially useful if there is a nationwide blockout of a site (like TPB is blocked over here).
Torrents:
Some good ones already mentioned, but I often also check Kickass Torrents (
www.kat.ph)