Did you install Java using the online or Offline installer?
Often the problem is with online installations.
Try these things:
1. (a) Remove all Java versions & install the OFFLINE version after downlding the installer to your computer first.
Download Java software from Sun Microsystems __ filesize: 15.18 MB 2nd on list. Reboot after installing Java.
(b) Delete your LW preferences folder.
2. Download & install this Offline version of LW (it will uninstall the previous version at beginning of installation)
http://www9.limewire.com/download/LimeWireWin-full.exe
3. If still problems, check steps 3, 5 & 6 here
Fixes for Limewire (click on blue link) eg: Compatibility to NT or Windows 2000, delete the LW prefs folder. This is important for the new version if didn't delete it above.