events after windows xp install to protect?

I really like this site! Very usefull! I did research first before posting, but didn't really find what I'm looking for.

I am about to reinstall Windows XP Pro on both of my computers (not a prob). I'm looking to see what I need to do after that install and if there is a particular order or priority to protect my computer from viruses, spyware, and Trojans. There are so many programs and procedures! I figure this includes windows updates.

Here is what I have

**2 computers Windows XP Pro networked via Microsoft G base station (using it as wired cable access network). It supposedly has a firewall built in according to Microsoft.

** Both are currently working with XP Pro on it now, I'm just starting from
scratch just for the sake of starting right. Everything is backed up from them.

***I do have Norton Internet Security 2004, but I've been hearing that it slows down the computer? If so, I don't want that obviously. NIS is an option.


Could I download tools and such from one of these beforehand? We both have had problems with Trojans recently on both, not sure if safe.


Thanks for all your help!
Marc

 

I just realized, I should really just take care of the problems on the computer and make it clean instead of reformatting.

I'll go through the directions in Major attitude's FAQ on spyware.

http://forums.majorgeeks.com/showthread.php?t=25834. If I have questions after doing what is on it, I'll post a question with my Hijack report.

On one computer I know I have the dropper.delf.3.1 trojan and the other has a dropper trojan as well.

-Marc

 

I just read your post, and the more experienced geeks can kick my butt on this, but I would recommend downloading a firewall application first, before you reformat. Unplug any internet connection that you have, and then reinstall Windows. After the installation, and before connecting to the internet, install the firewall application. This will provide some support while you are installing the anti-virus application of your choice. I use Avast anti-virus, and Sygate firewall on my XP computers, and have had no problem. Both are available on Major Geeks, in the download section.