Monitor auto-starting programs:
Windows Defender gets pigeonholed as an anti-spyware program, but it's actually a useful diagnostic tool. After you've installed all your apps, check out which ones are starting automatically with the help of the Software Explorer. The Startup Programs list, shown here, allows you to see all programs that are currently set to start with Windows, with full details in the pane on the right. You can remove or disable anything in the list. Other options show you running programs, programs that have active network connections, and Winsock service providers.
