Editor's Note: This information was originally created and belongs to Black Viper (Dead link, obviously). We have reproduced it, in large part until the original website returns, if ever. There were a lot of pages, so if you dig far enough reading it here, you will eventually hit dead links from older pages we do not have. The original scripts are also available for download.

1. Do not use msconfig to disable services. Type in the Run box "services.msc" instead!
2. Before disabling ANY service, check out the information listed about each service by clicking on the name.
3. Only disable a few services at a time to avoid changing "50" settings and trying to figure out "what broke it."
4. Still unsure? Put your setting to "manual" or the listing under "Safe." Manual allows Windows XP to start the service when it needs to (or when ever it feels like it,) but not at boot up. NOTE: Depending on your configuration, not all services will start when required while in Manual mode. If you find you need a service, place it in Auto.
5. After adjusting your service settings, reboot your computer.
6. If you do not have some of these services listed, don't panic! If your computer manufacture "pre-installed" your XP, they choose not to have certain services installed for you.

Notes

• Display Name ~ Is how it is displayed in the Services Control Panel
• Service Name ~ Is what the service is called, usually the "short" name
• Process Name ~ Name of the Process running in the background (displayed in Task Manager by hitting Ctrl+Alt+Del)
• Dependencies ~ What other services this service needs to run
• Need it? ~ From what I have concluded by trial and error and also the services that I have found pointless.
• MINE ~ My configuration & recommended to start.  Cross between Gaming (Power User) & Safe configuration.
• DEFAULT Pro ~ What Microsoft thinks should be running on Windows XP Professional.
• "SAFE" Configuration ~ This is the configuration that 95% of the people will be able to use with little side effects. It will also minimizes the amount of "errors" that is reported in the Event Viewer. This does NOT guarantee it will work for you, but if you are scared, this configuration should be a good starting point.
• Internet Gateway Configuration ~ Setup to allow multiple computers on a network to share one internet connection access point using Microsoft's "Internet Connection Sharing and Personal Firewall" software. If you do not have this type of setup, compare the differences between "SAFE" and "GAMING" to find a middle ground that works for your system.
• Gaming Configuration ~ The power user setup. DO NOT JUMP RIGHT TO THIS CONFIGURATION. This setup is a system that connects through a network to the internet, provides file and print sharing resources and gaming enjoyment. Some things MAY not function with this setup. No passwords are saved. It is not intended for a computer with analog modems or some DSL/cable connections. Try "Internet Gateway" Configuration first.