What programs should have an Icon on the taskbar in the area where the clock is located. I think this is to be used for programs that are a running process if I understand that correctly. On mine there are several like Microsoft Essential and messenger also Skype and a Network connection program. I was wondering if you can move any of these from that location? The other thing is the tab thing that hides and shows programs there does not always work and stops working, that is vanish, from the taskbar if another program is accessed. I am thinking there is a conflict with programs but have no idea what. I read something about an issue with the mouse and possibly using a self powered mouse will stop it from freezing up.

During loading of important programs they will put icons in there for you to monitor. Programs like Firewalls and Anti-virus you need and others just hang around like your mouse software or your graphics card settings. Not allowing them to start with Windows doesn't effect their settings, you just need to manually go to Control Panel or the Start Menu to launch them. Some allow you to prevent loading in their own settings area, and others you need to turn off from the start-up menu (open Run-type msconfig and hit OK then open the start-up tab (its nice to have some knowledge here, or at least common sense).