I’m not sure this is where I need to be. This posting stuff is new for me and My computer skills are minimal at best. I recently installed a registry cleaner on line(not yours) and ran a scan, I was not comfortable with it so I proceeded to un-install it and it started to delete all kinds of stuff which I thought was associated with the program. Upon re-booting my system I found that there was virtually nothing left in my START> All Programs. I then decided to do a system restore as I have Win XP home with S.P. 3 installed. I went to Start>All Programs>Acc.> System Tools which only held Int. Exp. (no add ons). The system restore function was missing. I attempted to run my cd of XP home and it told me the version I was running was newer than the cd I was attempting to use. I attribute this to the installation of the service pack 3 installation, but I don’t know for sure. My system still works but all my programs are missing from the All Programs section and I need all the help I can get, I think.
Please advise if possible.
Skynard
Hello. 
Most likely your programs aren’t deleted, just their shortcuts in the start menu are. Some registry cleaners (like CCleaner) with built in file cleaners with have the option to reset the start menu, etc.
Now, assuming you have a past restore point and the shortcut to system restore is gone, try this guide on how to run system restore from the command prompt (in safe mode)
I thank you for the suggestion but unfortunately I have no idea what your talking about for as I previously stated I 'm new ( virginal) at this and have no idea what your talking about. Please be specific with instructions (very), step by step.as this is the only way I comprehend these issues and learn. I can only hope this is explicit enough, if not please explain.
Thanks again for the attempt to help, again I appologize for my apparent ignorance.
L.D.MacKay (Skynard)
All the directions are on the link I provided.
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/304449
Here is some info on what command prompt is: A Getting Started Guide | dosprompt.info
"To start System Restore using the Command prompt, follow these steps:
- Restart your computer, and then press and hold F8 during the initial startup to start your computer in safe mode with a Command prompt.
- Use the arrow keys to select the Safe mode with a Command prompt option.
- If you are prompted to select an operating system, use the arrow keys to select the appropriate operating system for your computer, and then press ENTER.
- Log on as an administrator or with an account that has administrator credentials.
- At the command prompt, type %systemroot%\system32\restore\rstrui.exe, and then press ENTER.
- Follow the instructions that appear on the screen to restore your computer to a functional state."
This is quiet interesting as I use CC Cleaner though I have no uninstalled it. I sure hope if the day comes when I have to uninstall it that this does not happen to me as well.