Vista - Missing Files Internet Options Icon details do not show.

Whether it was Windows SP3 or Internet 8 Beta or just plain stupidity on my
part I am missing info so I am unable to log onto the Internet. I am using my
sons's laptop!
I am now running Windows XP SP3. I downloaded it with no problems. I also
download Internet Explorer 8 Beta and right away I had problems. I did all
the recommened fixes and it still did not work properly.

I uninstalled IE Beta 8 and reinstalled IE 7. For whatever reason I am
unable to get on the internet. The page starts to load then disapears. No
error message. I can see that I am connected to the internet but unable to
get on.

I went to my control panel and noticed right away that the Icon for Internet
Options was not showing properly.
Or should I say the icon was there but no description or title underneath.

What do I do. I went to do a system restore but it only has the day I did
the update and when I do it the update for IE Beta 8 does not even show up or
the info for the Icon.

Help!!!