missing Custom settings

the other day i was removing malware from my computer and I manage to wipe out the internet security zones under current user / internet settings. When I go to Internet properties , security tab and click on custom level, there are no choices and I dont have a recent restoration to back up to. Is there anyway of repairing it without a complete new install

I run windows 7 professional and with the removal of malware I have wiped out the custom level setting choices under the internet properties, security tab. The computer has locked it self in to a protected mode and will not allow me to install anything or adjust systems setting. It driving me mad, I have no suitable restore setting and I would prefer to avoid a complete reinstall. Can it be fixed without it

I would try a Repair Install. It doesn't mess with your data or installed software though some, like anti-virus may have to be installed.

See here: How to Do a Repair Install to Fix Windows 7

As the tutorial mentions, you can download a legal .iso of the Windows 7 with SP1, the same as you are using and use that to do the repair with. You will still have to apply most/all updates on top of SP1 but that should resolve the problem you are having.

Thank you, this proved very useful, far better than a full reinstall. Much appreciated

Glad to hear that helped. Thanks for letting me know.