Using Msconfig to shut off Auto-Start programs
.. Click Start, then go to Run, then type in: msconfig
.. Click on the Startup tab at the top, this will show a listing of programs
that auto start when your computer is first booted. If you uncheck the box the
program will no longer auto start and sit in your system tray /notification area
when you boot. You'll need to reboot before this takes effect.
Another way to do this would be to go to the program that is in your system
tray/notification area and you may find the settings to remove them from the
auto start, most programs have this listed in the properties section.
How to Troubleshoot By Using the Msconfig Utility in WinXP
http://support.microsoft.com/?kbid=310560
This site will tell you about different start up programs and what they're for
http://www.answersthatwork.com/Tasklist_pages/tasklist.htm