You do not need to be a computer genius to do this but if you are afraid of computers then don't bother. Be sure to back up all data before starting.
vLite - Windows Vista configuration tool removes a lot of bloatware from Windows Vista and makes it run much faster and more error free.
I have used it for the past couple years and recently switched to plain Vista and the difference is amazing.
What you will need.
A copy of Windows Vista. It might work with Windows 7 too, not sure.
A copy of vLite (link above).
A DVD burner.
A couple blank DVDs.
Willingness to format your hard drive and reinstall Windows.
Patience for some trial and error learning and to read the instructions.
Afterward you will be running Windows Vista with the bare minimum features - no side bar, no fancy window borders etc. These features and many others are not just disabled they are never installed. The install disk goes from 4.5 GB to 800MB. Your computer will run much faster and your computer fan will turn on less.