Windows Task Manager Question

[The_Professor]

Under Windows Task Manager, the Processes tab, is there a way to know which "Image Name" is okay and which are not? My system runs slow, will lock sometimes. I believe, someone is bouncing off my connection...chw

[shelf life]

You might recognize some processes by the name. Some are also essential for Windows to function properly and need to be running. Visit these two web sites below for good information before you do anything:
Sysinfo.org (http://www.sysinfo.org/startuplist.php)
Pacs-Portal (http://www.pacs-portal.co.uk/startup_content.php)

You dont want to simply 'end process' on something. The best thing to do would be to use a option in the software to disable it from starting automatically. Some software may have this option, some may not. You might start by clicking on any icons by the system clock and looking for the options. Obviously you want your antivirus and any other antimalware to run at startup.
Next you can delete the short cut that might be in the start up folder:
C:documents and setting/your profile/start menu/programs/startup
finally you can use msconfig to disable start up items:
http://www.netsquirrel.com/msconfig/
Will this help speed up your machine? Maybe, but only slightly.Could have other issues like a slow HD, not enough RAM. I assume your machine has updated AV etc and that you are malware free.


someone is bouncing off my connection
This is a whole separate issue. You can remedy this by securing your router, assuming again you are malware free.

[The_Professor]

That was very helpful, thank you...chw