> FIS, i have flattened 3 times and attempted step by step services
> disable and module killing but the complexity and manifold layering of XP
> is hard to get around; especially for a non-expert! Add to that the low
> level interference HP imposes to 'restore' files. modules, configurations
> etc before I even get to the HKEY.Run...portion of my input!

So you are not using a vanilla copy of XP - rather the 'HP Restore CD' which
contains these unwanted apps?

If this is the case, you are fighting a losing battle.

Obtain a copy of Microsoft XP with a suitable licence key. You have to ditch
the HP restore CD's if you want to remove all the HP crap.