Tedob1: Nope, the "hide protected operating system files" option is not checked.

darkes: I took a look in the registry, and I found an entry for each active x control that should be displayed in the Downloaded Program Files folder, but I guess they aren't corresponding with each other properly.

I checked out that microsoft support link that you posted, and it suggested that I remove the active x control/plugins, by removing it (if listed) under add/remove programs in the control panel...but alas they weren't listed. It also suggested navigating to the Downloaded Program Files folder and right clicking on the active x control that I want to remove, by right-clicking on the file and choosing 'Remove'...ha, but there isn't anything to right-click on. I just can't win!