Generally removing programs when you dont know what they are is a VERY bad idea.
Windows (and other applications) use all sorts of other programs (like .Net framework ) that most users are totally unaware of, so they dont think they need them. Leave them alone.
There are all sorts of things that can slow a computer down;
Slow Broadband. This is nothing to do with your computer but a slow broadband connection can make users think their computer is slow when in effect it is their broadband that is slow.
Too many programs starting when your computer starts. Having a program INSTALLED wont make your computer slow, but having it starting when the computer starts can slow it down as you may finish up with loads of programs all started, all filling up your RAM memory and fighting for space.
Having too little RAM (real) memory on your computer can slow it down. In fact the quickest and cheapest thing most people can do to speed up their PC is to add more memory (depending what memory they already have of course. If you have 4Gb of memory adding more probably wont speed it up).
Years of use of your computer can slow it down. As Windows gets used over the years it can get clogged up with unwanted programs, temporary files, and all sorts of other "junk", which all slow it down.
Best solution is a complete reinstall of Windows, though this may be a bit drastic for most people. Try clearing out the "crap" by running "Disk Clean Up" and a program called CCleaner.
Sometimes a computer is just too old to cope with modern software. Newer software tends to be more demandng than older software, so if you are trying to run new applications on a old computer the hardware may just not be fast enough. Only option is a major upgrade, or buy a new computer.