I trying to fix a friend's computer. It's a 2005 Dell 3000 with XP (2003?).

There are several problems that I can't seem to get around...

1 - Though I changed the default browser to Google, when I start Explorer, the page goes to Customize Your Settings, and is blank. When I hit the home icon, however, it does go to Google. It's a nusance, yes, but I fear it is also part of a bigger problem.

2 - I can not run exe pages, at all.

3 - the "http 403 forbidden" shows up on exe pages and 0x800a1391 on windows updates.

Can anyone help me?

Thanks, Pres