Computer running slow

[slambos2500]

Hi everybody

My computer appears to be running slow. Several people have told me that some programs may be running in the background.

How do I find out which programs may be running in the background and what must be done to delete them and make the computer run faster.?

 WindowsXP Professional computer

Thank You

[Allan]

Download and run Mike Lin's Startup Control Panel (http://www.mlin.net/StartupCPL.shtml). It will show you everything starting with the system and give you the ability to stop them from loading by simply unchecking their entries.

[Broni]

Also...

Please, post some computer info:
- processor type, amount of RAM (hold Windows logo key, hit Pause/Break key)
- hard drive size/free space (open "My Computer", right click on hard drive letter, click "Properties")
- security programs in use (antivirus, firewall)Please, post some computer info: