1st time boot internet question

pepperg

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Dec 8, 2006
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i am going to power up my homebuilt rig today and i want to find out the following---

is it wise to keep the machine offline until i have installed the following from a cd:
1)symantec antivirus
2)spybot
3)lavasoft ad-aware
4)win xp service pack 2


i don't even know if i can get xp sp2 as a downloadable .exe file, since windows does the update online. i just remember in years past that when i would reformat a computer from scratch and connect online, within about 2min, before i had time to install any virus etc protection, i would be getting spoof popups telling me that i had a virus and that my registry was corrupted, and ostensibly directing me to a microsoft website (which wasn't legit).

i am adament about not wanting any crap to get on my rig, and there wonder what you guys think are essential programs/updates to put on the computer before going online.

thanks.
 

Mondoman

Splendid
As long as you're behind a hardware firewall (e.g. built into your router), you'll be fine. If not, head over to the local store and buy a router -- it should cost around $60. Stay away from the NetGear ones at all costs!
 

skyguy

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Aug 14, 2006
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A router would be preferred. If it's not an option, then try to install those programs before connecting to the Net. Then download the updates, and go from there.
 

cutthroat

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Apr 13, 2004
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Personally I don't install security stuff until after I've updated Windows and installed my drivers. Although the Windows Firewall is likely still activated at that point.

My Vista x64 install (which I am using now) still does not have any security software installed but I can't find anything free that works :oops: . If I don't go anywhere stupid on the net I'll be fine.

That popup you seen was likely from Windows messenger, often used by spammers. You can and should disable that service right away.

Your chances of getting a virus from the Windows update site are pretty slim, just stay away from porn sites before you install AV.

BTW, any suggestions for free AV for Vista x64?