that 29 processes per core. If your running Vista then you more then likely have a dual core processor so that's half the processes shown. 29 is not many.
The number of processes also varies greatly, often from moment to moment.
There is one exception. What is your processor usage when all this is happening? This is a better guide to the extent to which your system is running. If it's running at 100% all the time then you have a problem.
You can disable services but this has many risks. I would not advise it.
You also may have two many programs running at the same time. Only you can decide what you don't want to run. See the "startup" file in "all programs" for a starting point for shutting down some unneeded programs. Then type msconfig in the search box and click enter. An applet will appear. Choose the startup tab and unclick any programs you do not wish to run. Services can be disabled here as well but again I would not advise this.
I have~~ at this very moment, 58 processes running in the background.
Now I am PC illiterate. But I know I don't need all 58 processes. How do I eliminate some and prevent others from running at start up?
Remember~~~~I know my way around a PC but not much.
I have a Dell desktop that my son 'fixed' due to this very same problem. But now I am having the same problem on my Compaq Presario w/ Vista [yuk]
Thanks

Chowhound
Comic Vine
GameFAQs
GameSpot
Giant Bomb
TechRepublic