Download the "Offline" versions so you have the entire installer on your desktop. Installing via dial up is potentially hazardous whilst the installer awaits the data to arrive. Whereas installing from your computer when all the data is within the installer is much safer. Same applies to Java.

You will only have a limewire preferences folder if you have gone thru the set up stage of setting options at the end of installation. To find them, you really need to view my sample image carefully. Also, check the post before it which has a sample of finding the previous version of LW prefs. But if you are only a new user, then you will find the prefs folder in the application data folder which is HIDDEN.

I'd recommend using the Add/Remove control panel to remove all previous versions of Java, then install the newer version of Java; Download Java software from Sun Microsystems

So ... install Java first.

If still problems ... remove all versions of java & install this version. Java 1.5 (take the JRE)

Also check the tips for changing LW compatibility if it doesn't run properly: Fixes for Limewire (click on blue link)

BTW never use the add/remove control panel to uninstall LimeWire. It will not fully uninstal it & cause headaches. Instead, each LW installer will uninstall previous version at beginning of installation. Else, go to start menu > Programs > LW > Uninstall.