Why Was This Crud Installed On My Computer

I installed iTunes to run my iPod. I did not ask for this thing to be installed on my system, and enabled to be started with the OS. I did not WANT this thing to be installed. It may be coincidence but ever since I disabled it my network and internet connection have been very, very slow and unreliable. Why do developers think installing their product gives them carte blanche to change your start up settings? I think it is time to manage my iPod with the Winamp plug in.