Preparation for new Windows 7 Professional Machine

[Tatterdemalion]

Hi

I have just ordered the first new PC I have had for six years. It will be the first I have used with Windows 7 as the operating system (I'm currently an XP user). Can anyone link to a page that suggests any initial steps I should take to fully secure this new machine? Having had an autorun problem in the past, I would like to know if I need to manually disable that on the new laptop. I intend to connect a couple of external USB hard drives and don't want them compromised.

Thanks...

[jchunk]

1.http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/sysinternals/bb963902 for auto run locations and removal ( if i understood you right) 2. Secure your router!!! http://technicallyeasy.net/2010/02/how-to-secure-your-windows-7-system-part-1/ 3, additional firewalls http://www.zonealarm.com/security/en-us/zonealarm-pc-security-free-firewall.htm Does bit locker ( hardrive encryption) come with professional? I'm sure there more you can do but these are a good start. 

[Tatterdemalion]

Will I need to install Panda USB vaccine and disable Messenger on a Windows 7 Professional machine ? Are there any better autorun-stoppers than Panda now ? It says its NTFS protection is only in Beta.

[jchunk]

http://www.copynotify.com/USBSecurityNoAutorun.html?gclid=CJ-o_smbzLUCFYx_QgodWSUAJg or http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/windows/desktop/cc144204%28v=vs.85%29.aspx you can also change permissions on ntfs formatted usb driveshttp://www.technibble.com/forums/showthread.php?t=6736 so other computers have read only privilege apparently . Now this is just for informational purposes as ive never done or attempted these approaches. Just wanted to share my research with you.

[jchunk]

if viruses are the concern why don't you post this in the malware forum? All i can do is research and share what i find as i am new and don't have a proven fix for you. this response should keep this thread open so others can view. GL!!!