system resources always low

my system appears to run normally, howevere, when I select the system icon and then performance my system resources are at a low level i.e. less than 25%. I have tried closing down programs and others to try and boost this level but can only manage a max of about 45-50%. I have had all operating systems on my machine at one time or another starting with WIN98 upto XP and now back at ME. can any one help me how to improve the percentage level

 

OK, This needs to be done anyway as it will help your computer.
Lets see if we can free up some resources.
Do Start > Run > [type in]MSCONFIG >Ok
Select the Start up tab
This will list all of the programs being started at boot time. The icons in the bottom right of the screen.
Leave
ScanRegistry
SysTray
Your Antivirus
Your firewall if you run one.
Unselect all of the rest, reboot
As well, if you are unsure of what they are, post back the items in the list, maybe someone will know.

Step by Step with Snapshots on how to do this

What some of those words mean
Some more of what those words mean
And some more

Some other good links on resources.



PC 911

Windows Help

PC Forrest