Delete your LW preferences folder as described above. Then try running LPE again. If still no good see below. Make sure LW is closed when you do these things.

Have you tried updating Java? Do a search for Java.exe file, when you find it, right-click it & choose Run As Administrator. Do the same for LPE's shortcut on desktop.

You should not need to disable your firewall, simply put LimeWire as an exception. Do the same for any other security software that may block. Just make sure there's only one firewall running. Two firewalls can cause unforeseen issues.

Also try the options in Birdy's link in post #2 above. Such things as disabling the Performance options.

If still no success after trying all those things, then post back all your system details as requested at bottom of Birdy's link. Some other details may help us.