If I bring up my task manager, there are 36 programs listed. They automatically start and stop on their own, and most of the time cause me some serious lag. Could someone please direct me to where I might find a list of which programs can be safely turned off, and which ones are vital to the computer's operation? I would greatly appreciate any help.

I gather you mean Services. These listings may help;

http://www.theeldergeek.com/services_guide.htm#Services

http://beemerworld.com/tips/servicesxp.htm

Once you (carefully) decide, go to Start, Run, type in services.msc. Right click on a service to start or stop. Then choose Properties for that service and click on the drop-down box for your choices.