With such unclear problems I would:
1. System restore back to when it still worked correctly.
2. If that doesn't help: repair Vista from the DVD. Several options given in http://www.bleepingcomputer.com/tutorials/tutorial148.html
3. If that doesn't help: do a clean install of Vista
4. Never use torrents anymore.
Kees
I've been using Vista Home Basic forever, and one day out of the blue, I was simply unable to download or run files such as freeware from the internet. This problem includes torrents. I've tried everything from scans to Safe Mode to removing AVG anti-virus,I've researched and dug into my files, everything, all without the desired result. IDK what to do besides taking my POS PC in to the geeks. I'm just hoping to save some scratch! Can somebody help me out?

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