Under start>run>MSconfig theres also a services tab. click that then click 'hide all microsoft services'

This will show up any services (not quite the same as programs) that might be running. If there is crap in there for your printer, or mobile phone, or an old virus scanner you dont use anymore, turn them off BUT only if you DONT use them anymore.

If you turn them off and it turns out you still use them you can always turn them back on.

hth
JAmes