My Dell Inspiron 1525 computer does not open Microsoft Windows so I can not access my control panel.

When I try to open my control panel, it tells me that Internet Explorer is not working. It restarts the program but then just goes back to my regular home screen. This means that all my settings must remain the same and I can not continue use of the computer if I do not have the control panel. If anyone can assist me, it would be greatly appreciated.