Hi,

As I had some experience with a lot of a products based on security I can recommend this, here it is what I used.

First of all install a fresh copy of the Microsoft Windows - this is what I use and I recommend especially for windows users. After installing your Windows OS, go and and update immediatelly from www.microsoft.com and check the Windows Update section. Update your system.

After doing this, by having your windows machine updated install those 2 programs :
I use kaspersky antivirus and kaspersky anti-hacker ( anti-hacker is a firewall ), I keep my antivirus updated on 3 hours. Also after installing it is wise to do a full scan virus check on your computer, also the anti-hacker firewall which is very simple to use will notice you for every attack encountered and every attempt of every application to use the internet. Also it is very good to use another security tool like I use Ad-aware Personal which is freeware for personal purpose and you can update it daily.

With these 3 security tools and your Windows system updated you can have a decent protection, but if you want to be sure 99.9 % you can add to my security formula the following thing. Create a VPN account and connect through him when you want to browse the internet, look here for more info www.findnot.com

Connecting through a 128 Bit Encrypted Connection and with those 3 security tools can get you a lot of privacy and security.

Also there are more TIPS and TRICKS in the settings of the Microsoft Windows XP OS like I use...but I think I will write an more detailed security tutorial. Please contact me if you need additional information regarding this security issue.