Starting over...

[Dichotomous Rex]

When you do a clean install what software, protection or otherwise, do you always install? I just reformatted after a smitfraud-c infection, and I don't want to use the Windows Firewall anymore, so I would love to hear the different software builds everyone uses to protect their settings. I'm running Windows XP, legal. I just got a new job, so I'll have money in a few weeks, but right now I'm especially interested in freeware.

When I do an install, I always end up with SpyBot, AdAware, FooBar2000, Aim, WinRAR, XViD, and FireFox... what is the best free firewall and is there any such thing as decent free antivirus software? Are there any other cool programs or utilities that you guys consider essential to a Windows build?

Thanks!

[tashi]

Hi there.

So how did I get infected in the first place? provides some good suggestions for free software.

UPDATED WINDOWS - Your first line of defence, links and tips

Others here may have their own suggestions.