Spyware is worse then Virus problems?

Okay, been gone from here a long time, and wonder now how I ever got along without this site, it is the best out there!
I am about to purchase a new computer in the near future. I am not computer savvy at all, mostly use it for surfing and emails, etc. Anyway, have had this one for a few years now, and I am getting spyware one it that I cannot get rid of, about blank for one! Okay, when I do get a new computer, what protection software should I buy and install on it? What is the best out there in other words? Any body have some ideas...or what you use that works? Thanks a lot!
Gary

 

My personal opinion, Windows XP Home Edition or Professional Edition with Windows XP Service Pack 2 is a start for security. For software I would suggest Norton AntiVirus 2005 for the antivirus. For spyware I would highly suggest SpySweeper, this program has worked wonders for me as in protecting me from spyware infections. If you have WinXP, SP2, NAV, SpySweeper you should stay clean from malware and worms. However you can still be infected if you visit unsafe sites. Hope this helps. Browse Safely!

Also please see this thread How to Protect yourself from malware!

 

bjgarrick
Thank you very much for the auick reply. I do not have any real problems that I know of with Viruses, I have Norton Works and it seems to do a great job. Okay, now for the bad news, I have Windows ME, and it is very unsteady. I know now thanks to you, what version of XP to get, know nothing about Service Packs however I must confess. Someone once told me that XP comes with built in firewalls? Not true huh? Or was that just the professional XP?

 

Windows XP does come with built in firewall, However in the latest update from Microsoft they released Service Pack 2 for Windows XP (all versions). Service Pack 2's intergrated firewall I have found to be quite amazing. I run Windows Longhorn but I have 2 other machines on Windows XP Professional with Service Pack 2.

 

Thank bjgarrick
I had no idea or even heard of Longhorn, so I looked it up and found out what it was and what it said.......What is Windows "Longhorn"?

Windows XP Web Site
To find out more about how you can get going with Microsoft Windows XP today, visit the Windows XP site for product overviews, purchase options, how-to articles, and more.

Microsoft is currently building the next version of Windows, code-named "Longhorn." "Longhorn" is being designed to provide the foundation for a new industry wave of innovation—ultimately enabling businesses to use technology more effectively, with far fewer barriers, while enabling customers to better realize the full benefits of technology.

Not sure if this really applies to me, maybe someone with a company? Anyway, thanks for your advice, I will for sure get the service pack 2 with the XP!
Okay, I have tried to get rid of About Blank that has taken control of my IE which has forced me to use Mozilla Foxfire for the time being....I have run Ad-ware SE and Spybot Search and Destroy 1.3.......yet not sure if I am running them correctly.........anyway, and help getting rid of this pest would be appreciated.........thank you!

 

Read this and follow all the directions that apply to your OS http://forums.majorgeeks.com/showthread.php?t=35407

 

Okay, I read it, and think most of it is over my head....told you I was not computer savvy.........but will try it when I have a lot of time. Thanks.