Programs running in the background!

What programs are absolutely necessary to be running in XP. Do you get to the start up items from the run/msconfig as in ME. Thanks, I'm trying to help a friend who just bought his first computer and I am not familiar with the new OS.

 

here is a site which can help you know what they all are and what to "turn off "..the other site referenced on the page is good too http://ww2.whidbey.net/djdenham/Uncheck.htm

 

Here is another excellent site on what to turn off:

http://www.blkviper.com/WinXP/servicecfg.htm

 

Thank you very much! Both sites have been very helpful. Never hurts to learn!