First, create the recovery discs for your computer.
Inital Cleanup
Run this tool, PC DecrapifierThis tool will remove all the bloatware which comes with a new computer. But, be careful to not remove necessary programs. Basically remove anything which might be a free trial or which you would never need.
Anti-virus
As far as virus protection I would use a couple things.Install both Microsoft Security Essentials and Avast Free Edition
I am also a fan of Norton Internet Security. I know there are many who disagree but I have never had any issues and have been able to clean up many people's computers using this software. But, it is only worth it if you can find it free after rebate usually from http://frys.com/. If you install this then don't install avast.
Malware
I would also recommend Malwarebytes. Just install this and update the definitions and then run it. I would do this on a monthly basis.Firewall
Also, make sure the Windows Firewall is enabled. If you want to use a different firewall than the built in Windows Firewall I would recommend Comodo Firewall. But just install the firewall part, not the anti-virus part.Additional Programs
A great site to get some good programs is http://ninite.com/. On this site you can select the software you want then download an installer. Run the installer and then it will automatically install those programs you selected without you needing to do anything. It is really nice.Final Words
I was going to make a list of all the software that I recommend, but I did find a site which has done a good job and I like about 70% of his recommendations, http://www.makeuseof.com/pages/best-windows-software. I will just list a few programs that everyone needs to install and learn how to use. Launchy, 7-zip, TeamViewer, Dropbox, Glary Utilities, Google Chrome, Firefox, Picasa, Audacity, Notepad++, KeePass. All of these can be found on the link I just gave above and on the ninite link also found above.
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