>>> Could it be anything to do with Internet Explorer ?
That's the easy bit to answer: 'No'.
Did you remember to restart your computer between uninstalling and reinstalling? That can be important; if you fail to do so, the new installation might still get linked to corrupt registry entries.
If you were able to actually let me loose on your computer, here's what I'd try (although, admittedly, not with any great certainty of success):
1. Download the free version of CCleaner. (It will run on XP):
https://www.ccleaner.com/ccleaner/download ;
2. Install CCleaner (but DON'T run it yet) ;
3. Uninstall Photo Suite 4 ;
4. RESTART the computer ;
5. Start CCleaner.
Click on 'Registry'.
Click on 'Scan for issues'.
When that's complete, click on 'Fix selected issues'.
Close CCleaner ;
6. RESTART the computer again ;
7. Reinstall Photo Suite 4.
8. Cross fingers!