Trying to start Windows Media Player brings error message that"an internal applications error has occurred." wplayer2.exe is still able to play video and sound files (mp3), except when you try to play an audio cd (cda), it responds with an error message, 80040265,"Cannot play back the file. The format is not supported."

I've checked an error 80040265 through the MS knowledge base and, after suggesting that the media be checked as to whether it's supported or damaged, it advises removing and reinstalling WMP. First, since it's native to XP Home SP1, there is no remove button in control panel. Next, given this fact and the nature of the problem, what would I try to install over the present version, version 9 or 10?

Also, directly after the problem first occurred, I did a system restore and brought back a configuration from two days earlier with no success.