[my3rdskyline]

i use a hardware firewall. all of the machines inside my network run norton antivirus (corp. edition). I never have any problems with viruses "getting in". The most common problem is my wifes computer. she is in the habit of using internet explorer and a lot of sites out there specifically target that browser.

You would be AMAZED at how simple and clean it is to just do the following:
Get a hardware firewall. (if you want to learn then build a linux box or if you're lazy just spend the 40 bucks on one)
Run antivirus software. and update it. or better yet just schedule automatic updates.
Don't use internet explorer.

Here are some tips for those who go the linux/unix firewall route (no pun intended):
before any of your rules but these basics.
Xmas tree packets (more than one state flag is raised)
Bogus/research/loopback network addresses.
Then put in your rules.....
A lot of people forget about christmas tree attacks and it seems like I block at least a few a day on my site so... watch out.

If you're doing all of this then you're safer than the average joe and that's all you need pretty much. and keep on top of your windows security updates. That should be a givin though.