what's the best way to lock down a computer?

[nageov3t]

my mom just got a new computer... what's the best way for me to lock it down to prevent spyware and viruses so that I don't need to worry about getting phone calls for tech support at 6 am on a Saturday morning?

 

[mundane]

Follow the advice in this thread, paying special attention to section D, Malware prevention.

 

[Sid59]

Spyware Blaster - to keep things out - dunno how effective
AOL Active Virus Shield - free aol AV built upon Kaspersky - uses kaspersky engine and updates
Windows Defender Beta 2
Site Advisor for FF / IE
Firefox with site advisor

create a profile under YOUR name and make it ADMIN powers
create her profile as limited user

it's helpful to train her how to avoid spam and special offers (i find it nice to mention spam offers like "BUMS on the street asking for personal info to let them recieve xxxxx" - works with the people i gotta train who are new to computers)

doesn't hurt to install adaware / spybot - you can always remote control and scan when you have time

last resort: tell her when in doubt, never fill out anything asking for personal information if she doesn't know. Anything go wrong, she can probably unplug the back of it and let it set. Or maybe unplugg the ethernet cable [BIG telephone looking jack]


ill add more if i think of more.