My new computer is on the way, and I'm having a hard time deciding on anti-virus and firewall programs. I understand that a fully-functioning firewall is preferable to Windows SP2 version, but what if I'm using the company's free version? Here's what I thinking: NOD32 for anti-virus Sygate for firewall Now, do I need the paid versions, or should I stick with the free versions? Is Sygate's free version better than the firewall included with SP2? How do my choices interact with XP Pro SP2? Any conflicts? I'm quite confused. I want a setup that's really good, but I don't want to have to pay for the full versions unless they are actually needed. Any expert advice would be greatly appreciated!!! Thanks in advance!

I do not think you need to pay for a full version software firewall. If you really want the best and economical firewall security possible as a home user. I would use the money you would spend on a software firewall to buy a router with a hardware firewall(DLink,Linksys,SMC). I would then use it with Sygate to monitor outbound traffic.

I would also recommend the hardware firewall such as capt outlined,and your choice Of Nod32 as an av is also an excellent choice.I have a wireless Dlink router on my Windows pc`s and it only cost me 30.00u.s.So your not damaging the pocket book in the mean time while your recieving excellent protection for a low cost. I believe Nod32 costs 39.00u.s for a new user,and the renewal is 27.00u.s after 1 year.So for under 80.00 u.s you are recieving excellent Security protection. If you do go with these choices you may want to add Spybot,Ad`ware,Spyblaster,as your Antispware tools.They will offer you protection and removal of spyware.Im sure other members will add some tools,or advice,but for starters this is excellent protection. Now if you dont want to spend all this money on security then you can just install a linux os,but thats another story.Lol!! Hope this helps!

Go here for the latest version of Sygate Personal Firewall Free 5.6.2808 www.majorgeeks.com/download.php?det=3356 Go here and get a free (for a year) anti virus app. Computer Associates eTrust from Microsoft... www.microsoft.com/windows/partnerpack/default.aspx?prereq=true Purgamentum initium, exitus purgamentum

I'd say go with eTrust as an AV. They update very frequently, it's a small program, and doesn't try to take over the computer. I've been using it for about 4 years now, and think it's great.