<p><b>Disable list of startup programs</b> </p><p>To disable the list of startup programs, go to User Configuration > Administrative Templates > System > Logon and enable 'Do not process the run once list'. This prevents programs from starting up automatically, thus giving you a faster boot up time. <img src="http://www.hashdot.com/winxpdisst.jpg" width="510" height="383" border="0" alt="" /> </p><p></p><p><b>Turning the firewall on </b> </p><p>Microsoft has included a firewall in Windows XP to keep you safe from hackers, while on the Net. It's quite easy to enable the firewall. Just click on the dial-up icon, which you must have created to connect to your ISP, and go to Start > All Programs > Accessories > Communications > Network Connections > Properties > Advanced, now select the box 'Internet Connection Firewall' and you are done. <img src="http://www.hashdot.com/winxpfire.jpg" width="510" height="383" border="0" alt="" /></p>