It sounds like your LW preferences are not saving at all. Even after you installed LW. I wonder why that would be.
Can you give us a total desciption of your set up:
1. Do this simple test for us. Using your browser go here:
http://www3.limewire.com:6346/ The page should say 'Your test worked!'. What happens when you go there?
2. How much ram?
3. Hard Disk space available?
4. Connection type? (eg: dialup, broadband, cable, etc.)
5. Modem & router brand name & model numbers?
6. Where are you trying to connect from (home, school, work, etc.)?
7. What version of Limewire (LW) & Java do you have? (Go to LW's menu Help>About LW...) Will show both LW & Java version.
8. Who is your isp provider (Internet Service Provider)?
9. Are you sharing the connection with other computers or p2p sharing programs? If yes, please give details of set up.
10. Is this a your 1st try at LW or is this a new problem with an experienced user.