What happens is that I go to the site where you install Limewire, and accept the installation. However, once the istallation is complete, nothing happens, and when I right click the file in my installation bar, the "open" and "open with..." options are grey.

Sounds like a Java problem. Which windows operating system are you running?

Sounds like you tried these tips? http://www.gnutellaforums.com/333278-post2.html
Did you actually run through the process of uninstalling Java & cleaning the registry before attempting to reinstall Java using the Offline version?

You use the Add/Remove control panel to install or uninstall Java.

You need to be logged in to the computer as an administrator to install Java & LW.

Hi. I have just joined the Gnutella forums and say hi to everyone

I also have this problem: Limewrire V.4.18.8 will not open.

I am running Win XP Pro.

I removed all older versions of Limewire and have downloaded a new version and have installed it.
Then when I try to open it, I get a prompt to upgrade, then the limewire screen (small), then it disappears. Any attempt to right click on the Limewire icon in the tray does not work.

Help!

You tried the tips above? Uninstalling both Java & LW, & reinstalling both using the Offline installers only? Also delete your LW preferences folder: whilst LW is closed; instructions here: Point #3 in Fixes for Limewire (sample image included at bottom of page.)

If still no good, try points 5 & 6 with compatibility mode.

And...

Do you have Alcohol software installed? If so, look here.
LW starts then close, log: resolve_virtual_call

You could also try the advice here: FIX: LimeWire won't start or closes immediately

limewire was removed from my computer in my control panel i would like to get it back but every time i try to download limewire it does not let me do it, please explain to me how i go about getting it back when i try to download it it just does nothing like it is already in the system but it will not open or do anything

Control panel is not the correct way to remove LW. Doing so can cause problems. (Despite LW support suggesting that technique ... which is a surprise. The programmers changed the installer type, & said no longer to uninstall via control panel.)

Try these methods: http://www.gnutellaforums.com/333278-post2.html