Windows 7: Thinks it is in Safe Mode

This Toshiba laptop isn't in safe mode but backup says it is. No netork adapters showing althought Device Manager lists the adapters with no exclaimation.

Started with the DVD not showing up but and an exclaimation in device manager. The internet was working just fine. I tried to remove the Upper Filters entry in the registry to fix the DVD issue but couldn't. I went into safe mode to take ownership and remove the offending entry and that worked. After that some apps, more than just backup, claim the machine is in safe mode eventhough it isn't. Hoping that this is the cause behind the network problems. After getting the DVD working I installed Nortons 360 and when trying to get updates I realized that there wasn't an internet connection. I did put Superantispyware in before fixing the DVD and ran it and nothing but cookies found.

Any ideas?

Sounds like you have a mess.
Can you do a system restore to a point before the DVD problem? Or at least get back to where you have just one problem?
You might want to do a Repair Install - Repair Install

ComputerJoe,
Taking Ownership is not the way to fly.

Follow the advice given to you by Bumpkin.

When you are not allowed to remove offending entries and clicking Permissions "Full Control" does not stay clicked it is the only way I've found to wrestle control and get the job done.

System Restore listed restore point but failed when I tried to restore.

I ended up burning a DVD of the data, since that worked, and making the restore disks. Then I wiped it and re-loaded the kit and kaboodle. Agravating when debugging tools are so lacking, and clues are burried in reams of system messages.

That's great news!
You fixed the computer and have saved your data, now be sure to start getting Windows Updates.