Start up menu

I am operating WinXP with a Dell 4550 with 384 ram.
When I check the programs that are listed on my startup menu, there are too many. My problem is that I cannot identify which ones are necessary and which are notfor a problem free start.
Is there any easy way to rid those programs which are slowing down my booting process?
Some of the symbols are known to me and some are not. I do not have the time to go thru a diagnostic startup and try to see which I can delete from the normal startup.
Is there a program which will make it easier for me to accomplish this.
Thanks
Mike
mschechter5@hotmail.com