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Once you have your internet connection established on a computer with a fresh Windows installation, the first thing to download and get up and running is some Antivirus Software.

My current favourite is Microsoft Security Essentials.

http://www.microsoft.com/security_essentials/

I prefer this package because it is free, lightweight and unobtrusive. It automatically updates without you having to think about it. Works a treat on Windows 7 for example.

Otherwise, I have also used Avast! antivirus over the last few years (note – don’t install more than one antivirus program – this can seriously slow down your system). Avast! is free, with automatic updates, but you have to renew your ‘subscription’ every year (relatively painless to do). Also a voice will remind you every time ‘virus database has been updated’ which might begin to annoy, but this reminder can be easily turned off.

http://www.avast.com/free-antivirus-download