Starting from scratch; need some recommendations

[rogerlarry]

I had a rough go of it not too long ago with about:blank and other issues so I ended-up doing a system restore and I've performed a systems restore about 3 times since then. This because my system gets infected before I get a chance to install all the new malware prevention software or I download codecs that screw-up my Media Center etc....

Here is my question:
What are the best, preferrably free, programs to install on my PC? I'm looking at uninstalling Norton. I'm starting from scratch...
What should I use to replace Norton?
Adaware?
what codecs package?
dameon tools?
etc....anything else that comes to mind?

Thanks in advance....

 

[howard_hopkinso]

The AVG free antivirus programe and either the free Zonalarm or the free Kerio firewall programme are very good.

You can get them HERE HERE and HERE.

Once you`ve downloaded those programmes, disconnect from the net. Go to add remove programme in your control panel and uninstall Norton. you may have to do this is several pieces, rebooting your system inbetween.

Once you`re sure Norton is completely uninstalled, install whichever Firewall programme you chose, followed by AVG. Reboot your system the required number of times and reconnect to the net. Run the AVG updates.

Boot into safe mode, under your normal user name. See how here.> http://www.bleepingcomputer.com/forums/tutorial61.html

Turn off system restore.(XP/ME only) See how here.> http://www.bleepingcomputer.com/forums/tutorial56.html

In Windows Explorer, turn on "Show all files and folders, including hidden and system". See how here.> http://www.bleepingcomputer.com/forums/tutorial62.html

Run a full system scan with AVG and delete whatever it finds. reboot into normal mode and turn system restore back on.

Then go, HERE and follow the instructions exactly.

Post a fresh HJT log as a .txt attachment into this thread, only after doing the above.

Regards Howard