Can't run or install applications

I have used the "Malware Removal Guide" with much success in the past, but am trying to fix a friends PC and can't get anything to run.


Using the "READ & RUN ME FIRST. Malware Removal Guide" thread I can do the first couple house cleaning tasks, but can not install Ccleaner or any other applications for that matter. I've tried renaming the file names, running in safe mode, and changing file extensions.

Nothing will run in any situation and I receive the following error when trying to run or install any application.

ccsetup218_slim.exe - Bad Image

C:\Windows\system32\VERSION.dll is either not designed to run on Windows or it contains an error. Try installing the program again using the original installation media or contact your system administrator or the software vendor for support.

I also created a Rescue CD from Avira and booted from this rescue CD on the affected computer, but it didn't find anything.

I am at loss as to where to start to even get any information to fix the problem.

Thanks

 

Yes, the laptop has none of those programs installed, so upon trying to install any program I receive the "Bad Image VERSION.DLL" error mentioned in the original post. I was able to look in the ADD/REMOVE programs and did not see any suspicious programs listed in the MALWARE REMOVAL Sticky listed. I have tried in Safe Mode and renaming the file names/ extensions, but no luck just the same VERSION.DLL error. The internal windows programs I've checked seem to run such as command prompt, windows explorer, word pad, paint, and internet explorer. It seems like most the third party applications currently installed and new applications upon trying to install give the above mentioned "Bad Image" VERSION.DLL error.