What can I safely delete from the start up (ms config) without messing up my computer.  It is so slow. I have Windows 98defrag/SCANDISK/\ tools/ internet/options/ clear/history /delete files/  for a start........you cannot delete anything from msconfig........unless you use edit..you can disable programs loaded at start -up just un tick the boxex that are relvant to you......what are  programs are loaded at boot -up.Things such as explorer and systray need to be left in msconfig, as well as things for your firewall, virus scanner etc.

Look at the taskbar on the bottem RIGHT of the screen. This should have icons on it. They are programs which automatically load. Look at them and see if they have an option to disable load at STARTUP. If they don't look for them in msconfig. Most msconfig entries should have a file path with them. Eg c:\program file\quicktime\quicktime.exe (that is an example I don't know quicktime's real address) If you don't want quicktime to load automatically, disable it. It should be possible to load it in Windows if you need it.

As merlin_2 suggested, run scandisk and defrag. They are best run in safe-mode to stop them being distrubed. To GET in safe-mode, press F8 when booting up and select safe mode.

You can buy Diskeeper www.executive.com it is a GOOD defragmenter. It does not work in safe-mode but it does not get disturbed easily.