I always used a little utility called NetLab (in the security tools and links thread) to do my WhoIs, DNS and ping info. Freeware, it always did the job. I still recommend it Recently I aquired NeoTrace Pro and have grown very fond of it in the short time I've had it.
This is an excellent program that gives you as much information as you need when doing a lookup and trace of a site, ip address or mail server.
This program earns a top '6' on the Interceptor scale for ease of use and functionality.
Features:
Internet Explorer Integration
Website tracing is just a click away with our IE browser integrated Trace Button.
Variety of Graphical Information
The Node View complements improvements in our existing Map and List Views, offering users a wide range of graphical data for precision tracing.
Detailed Map View
Map View shows most detailed available map for current view using expanded regional information.
Streamlined List View
Node data is simple to understand with an integrated graph and an array of user-configurable data columns.
Expanded Geographical Data
Improves accuracy of node placement with increased server based lookups for all traces.
HackerWatch.org Event Reporting
When using NeoTrace in conjunction with a firewall it is simple to submit event reports to HackerWatch right from NeoTrace.
Mail Server Tracing
Email address entry allows NeoTrace to locate the mail server for that address.
Many Save Formats
Allows trace data, maps or both to be saved in formats such as JPG, PNG, BMP, HTML, RTF, and plain text.
http://www.neoworx.com/products/neotrace/
Buyware $29.95 (US)
Internet Explorer 4.01 or greater, and Windows 95/ 98/NT/2000