Very basic question about securing my fresh old computer

[Inkydog]

This is probably a super basic question, but I hope that someone can answer for me.

I'm about to reformat my PC and reinstall Vista, which means reinstalling everything. One thing I'm never quite certain about is what order to do everything in. When I finish installing the OS, it prompts me to go online and validate it and update it and all that, but I need to have an antivirus up and running before I do that, don't I?
My assumption is that an unprotected PC shouldn't go online for even one minute, so when do I install the antivirus and update it?

And one last thing: do the folks around here have recommendations for the best set-up of free security measures? We don't have a ton of money and stuff like AVG is what I rely on. What is the minimum stuff I should install on my machine in order to have some hope of surfing safely?

Thanks very much!

[Doug]

When I reinstalled Vista I couldn't authenticate my verison of Windows right away.  I had trouble getting the network adaptor working.  But, you have the option to verify Windows later.  Just look at all the options the boxes give you.  And I think connnecting to Microsoft is probably safe.  Also, you will probably have to install updates before you can install your AV.  I use Trend Micro and I had to wait until service pack two was installed before I could install my AV.  But, like I said, I think doing this with microsoft is safe.  Now I wouldn't go looking for coupons online right away to use at L.L. Bean, that might get you into trouble.

Anyone please correct me or post that I'm wrong.

[SuperDave]

I'm about to reformat my PC and reinstall Vista, which means reinstalling everything. One thing I'm never quite certain about is what order to do everything in. When I finish installing the OS, it prompts me to go online and validate it and update it and all that, but I need to have an antivirus up and running before I do that, don't I?
My assumption is that an unprotected PC shouldn't go online for even one minute, so when do I install the antivirus and update it?

And one last thing: do the folks around here have recommendations for the best set-up of free security measures? We don't have a ton of money and stuff like AVG is what I rely on. What is the minimum stuff I should install on my machine in order to have some hope of surfing safely?

You can download a free AV from the list below and save it on a memory stick or DVD using another computer then install it on your computer. Then get your updates. You should have a good, updated AV, turn on Windows Defender and Windows firewall. If your doing on-line banking you should install a third-party firewall.

Remember to only install one antivirus!
 
1) Avast! Home Edition
2) AVG Free Edition
3) Avira AntiVir Personal
4) Microsoft Security Essentials for Windows Vista\Windows 7 - 64 bit Download
4-a) Microsoft Security Essentials for Windows XP
5) Comodo Antivirus (Uncheck during installation "Install Comodo SafeSurf..", Make Comodo my default search provider" and "Make Comodo Search my homepage" if you choose this one)
6) PC Tools AntiVirus Free Edition

It is strongly recommended that you run only one antivirus program at a time. Having more than one antivirus program active in memory uses additional resources and can result in program conflicts and false virus alerts. If you choose to install more than one antivirus program on your computer, then only one of them should be active in memory at a time.

Remember only install ONE firewall

1) Comodo Personal Firewall (Uncheck during installation "Install Comodo SafeSurf..", Make Comodo my default search provider" and "Make Comodo Search my homepage" and uncheck any HopSurf and/or Ask.com options if you choose this one)
2) Online Armor
3) Agnitum Outpost
4) PC Tools Firewall Plus

If you are using the built-in Windows XP firewall, it is not recommended as it does not block outgoing connections. This means that any malware on your computer is free to "phone home" for more instructions. Simply put, Windows XP contains a mediocre firewall. This firewall is NO replacement for a dedicated software solution. Remember to use only one firewall at the same time.

I suggest using WOT - Web of Trust. WOT is a free Internet security addon for your browser. It will keep you safe from online scams, identity theft, spyware, spam, viruses and unreliable shopping sites. WOT warns you before you interact with a risky website. It's easy and it's free.

SpywareBlaster- Secure your Internet Explorer to make it harder for ActiveX programs to run on your computer. Also stop certain cookies from being added to your computer when running Mozilla based browsers like Firefox.
* Using SpywareBlaster to protect your computer from Spyware and Malware
* If you don't know what ActiveX controls are, see here

Protect yourself against spyware using the Immunize feature in Spybot - Search & Destroy. Guide: Use Spybot's Immunize Feature to prevent spyware infection in real-time. Note: To ensure you have the latest Immunizations always update Spybot - Search & Destroy before Immunizing. Spybot - Search & Destroy FAQ

Check out Keeping Yourself Safe On The Web for tips and free tools to help keep you safe in the future.

[Inkydog]

Thanks again, SuperDave! Why doesn't every PC come with a set of instructions like this? I wish I knew this stuff years ago.
This site is the best!

[SuperDave]

You're welcome.

[ingridjackson]

Just signed up a few minutes ago & came about this thread. I noticed that with anti virus, you only mention AVG though I've seen also others. Is this what you really recommend? Do you have any feedbacks or review on AVAST? By the way, I'm using Windows 7. thank you.