hi, would like to know how to set-up the initial programs to be running when starting the comp?

Answer 1

click on start > run type msconfig. Press ok. Click on Startup tab. Uncheck names of those programs there that you do not need at startup. (These settings are reversible, if you uncheck something and later decide that it is necessary at startup; you can always come back and change the settings again.) Press Apply. Press close. Click on restart to reboot the computer. After reboot system configuration message window appears . Check the box that says do not display this again, and press ok to close the box.

Answer 2

I recommend the use of the Windows startup manager for it.
http://www.neosoft-tools.com/windows-startup-manager.htm
It disables any startup programs and fully controls startup by selecting the programs to be launched, while customizing the startup settings (ie how often and when programs should be launched, etc).

Answer 3

click start>run
type msconfig
click on start up
select which programs you want/don't want to be running when starting the comp
be careful make sure printers modems etc... are checked
click apply then ok
and ok to re-start
after restart check box that says " don't show me this anymore"
then click ok