I am using windows 2000 pro
I also am just learning(ROOKIE) it seems that I have A ton of things running at start

For general startups this tool is good:

http://www.ccleaner.com/

Startups are under Tools | Startup

This other tool will show it all in great detail:

http://www.sysinternals.com/ntw2k/fr...autoruns.shtml

You can also use the msconfig tool if you install this:

http://www.gwynfryn.co.uk/downloads/msconfig.zip

Unzip the files and place them in your system path.

After you have the list you can post back if you want help in identifying what is needed and what is not. (Most is not).

A useful link on how to disable startup programs
http://www.pacs-portal.co.uk/startup_content.php