Hi

I have just ordered the first new PC I have had for six years. It will be the first I have used with Windows 7 as the operating system (I'm CURRENTLY an XP user). Can anyone link to a page that suggests any initial steps I should take to fully secure this new machine? Having had an autorun problem in the PAST, I would like to know if I need to manually disable that on the new laptop. I intend to connect a couple of external USB hard drives and don't want them compromised.

Thanks...1.HTTP://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/sysinternals/bb963902 for auto run locations and removal ( if i understood you right) 2. Secure your router!!! http://technicallyeasy.net/2010/02/how-to-secure-your-windows-7-system-part-1/ 3, additional firewalls http://www.zonealarm.com/security/en-us/zonealarm-pc-security-free-firewall.htm Does bit locker ( hardrive encryption) come with professional? I'm sure there more you can do but these are a good start. Will I need to install Panda USB vaccine and disable Messenger on a Windows 7 Professional machine ? Are there any better autorun-stoppers than Panda now ? It says its NTFS PROTECTION is only in Beta.http://www.copynotify.com/USBSecurityNoAutorun.html?gclid=CJ-o_smbzLUCFYx_QgodWSUAJg or http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/windows/desktop/cc144204%28v=vs.85%29.aspx you can also change permissions on ntfs formatted usb driveshttp://www.technibble.com/forums/showthread.php?t=6736 so other computers have read only privilege apparently . Now this is just for informational purposes as ive never done or attempted these approaches. Just wanted to share my research with you. if VIRUSES are the concern why don't you post this in the malware forum? All i can do is research and share what i find as i am new and don't have a proven fix for you. this response should keep this thread open so others can view. GL!!!