i cant get windows to open folders therefore i cant open any files i download to help or fix problem.

Welcome to D-A-L.

Run a file check on the O/S.

METHOD 1
If you have an XP CD:
Click START, RUN, type in:

sfc /purgecache

(This ensures that system files are copied from your Windows installation media, and files which may be infected/damaged with malware, or are corrupted, are not copied from your drive. Some of the files which are restored/replaced may need MS Updates applied. If sfc replaces any such files, you will have to reinstall updates for those files. (If you have Automatic Updates active, this will happen automatically.))

Then type in:

sfc /scannow

Have your XP CD handy.


METHOD 2
If you do not have an XP CD:
Click START, RUN, type in:

sfc /scannow

Post back with your results.