So, recently I've been having to fix computers for a lot of people, and thought it might be beneficial to pass on some of the knowledge I've accquired from doing this. The post describe my usual process in setting up a fresh install of Windows XP

---- Security ----

I used to do computer consulting for a living, and can honestly say that there is really only one option when choosing your windows antivirus program and that is ESET Nod 32. This program is by far, the fastest with the smallest footprint, and best of all, the most effective at protecting your system. What's REALLY REALLY great is that a search for 'Nod 32 forever' will link you to a torrent that describes the very legal way to extend the 2.7 trial version, to an unlimited version.

Even though Nod32 is so good, I would still strongly advise installing SpyBot Search and Destroy. It's advanced features are second to none in regards to managing startup processes. It's immunization feature is also excellent in poviding security patches to certain programs.

Free Online Scanners:

Uses activeX: http://www.eset.com/onlinescan/ :: http://www.bitdefender.com/scan8/ie.html:: http://www.kaspersky.com/virusscanner
Uses java: http://shop.trendmicro.com/trialpay/?utm_source=Housecall&utm_campaign=TrialPay


AntiVirus Live CD's

Boots DOS:

kasperkey:
::::: howto ->

Boots Knoppix:

bitdefender:
dr. web:

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Utility

Hands down, it's CCleaner. Rated as the top xp program by poll on LifeHacker, this completely free program cleans your registry and removes all the crap that XP builds up. When installing, just make sure you uncheck the yahoo toolbar option! In CCleaner's settings, uncheck temp files older than 48hrs as many viruses constantly put crap in the temp folder.

Unlocker Assistant is great in allowing you to delete files that windows says are in use.

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Internet

1) FireFox is your browser ... love it ... hug it ... #%^* it

Plugins I add right away are ( NoScript FlashBlock AdBlockPlus ForcasterFox )

2) Thunderbird :: your easy to use email client

3) Pidgin :: The ultimate chat client. This is not some buggy Trillian, this is a well maintained chat client with lots of features along with the support of AIM YAHOO MSN IRC JABBER ICQ and much more.

4) Utorrent :: very nice torrenting client with many features and very little resource usage

5) PeerGuardian 2 :: This program is incredible and makes me feel safe at night. Blocking nearly 400 million ip's including anti p2p spam and add ip's you can't go wrong with this program... let it startup with windows, use it's 5MB of ram and keep your computer from prying eyes.

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Media Player

1) MUSIC :: If you don't have an iPod, go with WinAmp. It looks nice, works well, and uses very little resources.

2) VIDEO :: Combined Community Codec Pack ( CCCP ) Brings you better looks and more file support than vlc. Install it and oogle over all the options you get with it. Between settings for 5.1 sound, or the Haii media splitter for uber fast file decoding, you can't go wrong with this. (CCCP includes MPC and Zoom Player). VLC is also a favorite. It's ability to play files that aren't yet finished is probably my favorite feature. The new version adds much improved support for subtitles.