As you only have Internet Explorer on your computer, would you consider trying Mozilla Firefox?
It uses the tabs and has some very good security features and ad blockers.
I use it on on my windows 7 64 bit system I am on now as well as my XP Pro.
I also have Internet Explorer but much prefer the Firefox.
Your color change issue will likely go away once you change Web browsers.
Just a suggestion.
Take care,
micro...