Several weeks ago I got hit with a virus. My AV software caught it, but the resulting clean process was to delete every shortcut on my PC, over 250 :( So now when I click on All Programs, most of the shortcuts are gone. Even yesterday when I installed Visio I don't have a shortcut to it, most likely since the program folder shortcut to Microsoft Office is gone. Is there any way of repairing this?

Hi, Did you have a backup? A system restore could help you. Meanwhile, try the system file check, click Start, input cmd in the search box, press ENTER to open the command prompt, then input the command: sfc /scannow After this, check if the issue persists. For more information and support on virus issues, I would also like to suggest that you call Microsoft PC Safety telephone number, 1-866-727-2338 (1-866-PCSAFETY). This service offers no-charge assistance for virus-related issues or questions. Or, you can check Microsoft Security and Privacy Web site at: http://www.microsoft.com/security/ Regards, Miya TechNet Subscriber Support in forum. If you have any feedback on our support, please contact tnmff@microsoft.comMiya Yao TechNet Community Support

No backups unfortunately. I tried the SFC / SCANNOW but it made no difference I did follow the instructions found in http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/135246-start-menu-all-programs-windows-7-restore-default-shortcuts.html. In the process I found that the folder C:\ProgramData\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs was set to hidden, as were all the sub-folders below it (except those applications that were installed since the virus-cleanup occured. When I removed the Hidden attribute the All Programs subfolders all re-appeared. Thanks for your helpRixter