Hi Broni,
A report, not that much progress alas.
I did remove 5 of the 6 items in HijackThis that you instructed, the Java one was not there, probably because I had already removed Java in Add/Remove.
I was unable to install the Java (neither the JavaRa or the later jxinstall - due to "current Internet settings???).
I did intend to connect the computer to the router with a cable to take the wireless element out of the equation, however I also attempted to uninstall and reinstall the DLink software. I was able to uninstall fine but was denied permission to install it, which left me feeling a little like I had egg on my face.
As this whole thing has been dragging on, I advised my friend that she was paying for Intenet access and not getting it, and I had exhauasted all options. She will take the computer and router to a computer repair facility next week, who will no doubt isolate the problem inside half an hour, easy with the box in front of you.
Thanks on her behalf and mine for all your efforts, I do really appreciate the time and patience you have shown me.
I will post again when I know the result of the technician's work, I am certainly curious to know what the root cause of this matter is, and I suspect you are too. His/her findings might just teach us all something new.
Cheers, and many many thanks Broni, you are an