Sounds like a java problem. Use the Add/Remove Programs & remove all versions of Java, then install the OFFLINE java version:
Download Java software from Sun Microsystems which is about a 15 MB download (download this before uninstalling previous versions of Java. Then install. You may need to reboot your computer after installing Java.)
If still problems, Try deleting your LW Preferences folder whilst LW is
closed; instructions here:
Point #23 in Fixes for Limewire (sample image included at bottom of page.) or for VISTA see
http://www.gnutellaforums.com/genera...der-vista.html