Help with Spam and Start up Programs

I am new to Major Geeks and I am most definitely NOT a computer wiz. Probably the opposite. So if there is anyone willing to help me please speak so an idiot can understand. First, I'm looking for a way to block unwanted email. I am currently using Incredimail. Most of the free programs I've seen on this site say it's for Outlook or Outlook Express. Would these work with Incredimail? If not, what would? Next up. I'm trying to get my computer to start up and shut down faster. I know about the msconfig thing but I don't know which programs are safe to uncheck. Any help with these two issues would be greatly appreciated. And please remember to keep it as simple as possible. Thanks.

 

Thank you so much for your quick response. I will try your recommendations. Again, Thank you.