Shockwave crashes in ALL browsers. Windows 7 starter, ie, firefox, chrome. Done it all:What's next?

The problem first appeared in Firefox. I updated as directed, attempted to run the test, but kept getting crashes. Switched to ie, same thing. Switched to chrome, which seemed to work for awhile, then it too went down in flames. Per Chrome's support page, I alternately disabled the native chrome shockwave, which seemed to work for about three hours, then disabled the windows shockwave installation, the same. I have scanned for malware, viruses, spyware, old software installs that might conflict with chrome, Upgraded the users system ram (in case it was a resource issue), removed and reinstalled all browsers.

Short of blowing away everything and restoring to factory fresh, nothing works. There are entries on this issue ALL OVER THE WEB: Has it occurred to anyone at Adobe that so pervasive a problem might be on THEIR end? Since there seems to be no real alternative to your products for the average user. and none of the fixes work, perhaps the releases are corrupt?

(p.s.- I have a degree in computer sciences, Microsoft certifications up the wazoo, and have more than 20 years working experience in IT management : I am NOT an average user, and I would like some help.)