internet explorer version

hi, question is... How do i make my computer realise its running explorer 6sp.

when i try to run any new program, it says my explorer is out of date an needs to be atleast version 5 or more. i have downloaded the latest updates form microsoft.
--when i go to help, about explorer, the version is Blank.
--i do have tuneup utilities 2004, and under system info- IE version is listed as :n/AIC, but if i go under process details, it does say internet explorer/version 6.00.280.1106.
---i cant figure why programs are not recgonising that explorer is up to date.

Microsoft Windows 98
IE 5 6.0.2800.1106
GenuineIntel x86 Family 6 Model 8 Stepping 6
128MB RAM
42% system resources free
Windows-managed swap file on drive C (17270MB free)(whatever that means)
Available space on drive C: 17270MB of 19530MB (FAT32)
----well hope thats enough info------thanks for any help