Error launching internet explorer 7 after upgrade from xp home to

After upgrading from xp home to xp proffesional, I'm encountering multiple
errors with IE6. It first started with not being able to input a web address
without getting an error. I was able to click on links ok, but manual input
was no good.

So I installed IE7, and then it wouldn't even open. I would get the error
"Unable to find inetcpl.cpl. the operating system cannot run %1." I tried
taking inetcpl from a good computer to this one, and it was already there. I
copied it over anywhere. still no good. I uninstalled and reinstalled IE7
(ie6 didn't work at all inbetween) and now when I try to open IE7 it just
makes shortcuts to itself on the desktop. that's where i'm at now

I've tried doing a repair install of windows, uninstalling and reinstalling
IE in both safe and normal modes. I can't find anything like this on google.
Any idea where I should go next? Other browsers work perfect, but that
won't work for my customer. Any and all help is appreciated.