Windows 7: Desktop Shortcuts and Start menu links won't work

I recently built my new computer. Today I was just installing some programs when I noticed that all links had stopped working.
Right after installing Photoshop CS4, i tried to open it from the start menu and nothing happened. I would click the icon but absolutely nothing is happening.
It happens for everything, firefox, itunes, even shortcuts to folders. Creating new shortcuts also doesn't work. My quick launch toolbar also stopped working. The only way I can open up programs is to go into windows explorer and find them.
I tried uninstalling Photoshop, which did nothing. Used ccleaner to fix the registry errors, still nothing.



Should I just do a startup repair install? Or is there a better way to fix this issue?

You can try a system restore, but a repair install may be your best bet...

System Restore

Repair Install

I have provided you with our excellent tutorials on both system restore and repair install.

If you follow both TEWS, advice and the information provided in our tutorials, you will be up and running in no time.

As a member, please, feel free to avail yourself of any of our resources, which include our tutorials and the expertise of our members.

Hope that your problems gets resolved, quickly.