Been having the exact same issues described in the original post. So far seems to be related to 2004 update.
For wireless devices the workaround here fixes the issue, but I don't think it works for ethernet connected devices.
https://support.microsoft.com/en-gb/help/4494446/an-internet-explorer-or-edge-window-opens-when-your-computer-connects#:~:text=NLA%20uses%20a%20component%20that,has%20intranet%20or%20internet%20connectivity.&text=These%20probes%20are%20triggered%20by%20changes%20in%20any%20of%20the%20network%20interfaces.