Every time I start my cpu, i get an error message that the apiwv.exe file has encountered an error and needs to close. I do not know what this file is or how to correct the problem. I also have a problem with my internet explorer that may be associated with this. I have tried to run the service pack 2 update from the windows site but when it gets to the end the same apiwv.exe error box pops up and freezes the update.

Does anyone know what this file is or how to fix the error?

BTW every time I open my internet explorer, it jumps to this fake microsoft search page and some spyware box pops up...

sounds like you have been infected with spyware, you definatly need to get hijack this and post a log in the spyware section of D-A-L and let owen have a look.

go there for more info