I bought a new computer

Do this now.  Do this before you surf the internet!  Immediately.  ASAP.  Do not pass go!  Right now!  No fooling!  You may never need me if you do this! 

Read this if your computer is not new.

Update your

Click <Start> <All Programs> <Windows Update>.  This will take you to the Microsoft Update web site.  This site contains a program that will examine your computer for updates, then make recommendations.  The updates are fixes to your operating system.  Get them all.  Every update Microsoft wants to give you, take.  Many of these fixes plug holes in security that keep your computer from getting infected with bad stuff.  Be not afraid.  This is not a plot by the Evil Empire to control your computer. 

Get Anti-Spyware that blocks new spyware

Go to www.webroot.com and pay their fee ($30 or so) for Spysweeper and install it on your computer.  It will update definitions for a year.  Keep all the shields active.

Go to www.grisoft.com and get their free AVG AntiVirus.  Set it to update every two days.  Do not be lulled into complacency by the antivirus installed on your computer at the factory.  Good antivirus depends on virus definition updates being current.  Your new computer update service may be good for only a short time, then expire leaving you vulnerable. 

Set your firewall to ON.

Do not join filesharing networks like Kazaa, Grokster, etc. unless you have a spare computer to trash and restore.

If you have the compulsion to share files, try using UseNet or UseNotes.  Check with your ISP for free usenote servers.  Go to http://www.newsbin.com/ for more info.

Backup your files every day.  Set a Restore Point Now.

If you continue with a good maintenance schedule, your computer may last until hardware fails. 

Happy computing!