I just got a new laptop. I didn't have Best Buy install all the antivirus/spyware etc software

I figured I could just buy it and do it myself. What is a really good one to buy? I heard Norton's is bad. I need one that covers everything bc I definitely do NOT want any viruses or anything going wrong with the comp, esp bc I didn't get the extended service plan with my comp.........any advice???

I just got a new laptop. I didn't have Best Buy install all the antivirus/spyware etc software on my comp.suzuki

If you don't have security software installed, here are some recommendations from available freeware:

firewall:

Comodo (http://www.comodo.com), or

PC Tools (http://www.pctools.com/firewall)

Comodo recently released version 3.0 of its firewall, which adds an intrusion prevention component that's very effectively, though it does take time for it to learn your system, and requires some ongoing attention by the user to make sure programs don't get improperly block. Comodo is one of the strongest firewalls available, freeware or commercial, according to the independent testing site matousec.com.

antivirus: (listed in order of preference)

Avira (http://www.free-av.com)

AVAST! Home (http://www.avast.com)

AVG (http://free.grisoft.com)

all provide realtime protection and automatic updates; all have ICSA and VB100 certification, but Avira has been among the highest rated in tests by several respected US and UK computer publications.