Have got a new computer today, and will be installing it tomorrow.
I’ll be using Windows Vista Home Premium, and I’ll be starting from scratch. So, please tell me what all should be the first steps to ensure a secure OS. Should I install Service Pack? Which free Anti Virus/Firewall should I use. Which all utilities should I use (for eg CCleaner or defragmenters)? Which application to remove spyware?
Thanks for the help
Anyone?
202020
seriously this is in your hands…all we can say is dont trust any software before installation.
again your call..if you are only using for browsing + movies and all and no online gaming (i mean the mainstream FPS and all) then install linux. you have a lotta guides available in TE itself fr beginners.
Free AnitVirus - Avast Anti virus…its really good one. I use this + Zone alarm firewall..not sure if ZA is free..If you install linux you wont be needing any AV or Firewall
Spybot Search and Destroy – make sure to update it regularly
Pleasurez all mine 
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Update OS with every service pack available:
Antivirus:
None in the free category is best, but Avast/AntiVir are better.
Also burn kaspersky rescue disk incase you have any visitors.
Firewall:
Comdo is best and very powerful.
ZA is not free
Malware Scanner:
Spybit Search & destroy + Lavasoft AdAware
Use HTthis also for scanning unwanted malware integration in your OS
+1 for Comodo firewall & Avira Antivirus - both are free
^^ Zone Alarm does have a free edition… 
Here is what I suggest for a free solution,
Update Windows. Use the latest SP.
MS Windows defender
Avast AV
Zonealarm Free edition
The above should give you more then enough protection and all for free. Additionally you can also use Spybot S&D to immunize your browser and to check for malware/spy ware.
Avira+comodo+ad-ware or spybot search nd destroy..