When I got to Start and select Run I get the following message "Windows cannot create a shortcut here. Do you want the shortcut to be placed in the desktop instead?" As a result I can't do the normal functions from "Run". I had Geeksquad from Bestbuy look at the computer for a different reason a while back and they had no clue.

Are you saying the "Browse" feature of Run doesn't work?

Obviously somethings not quite right.

Try doing a Windows repair as per this thread HERE (http://www.techspot.com/vb/topic8356.html)

After you have finished the repair. You will need to update your Windows again, as the repair will wipe all your windows updates.

Regards Howard :)