New Windows 7 install!

[mikeymm]

Hi all,

I'll be getting my copy of Windows 7 HP 64 bit this week and I would really appreciate some beginners advice on how I should go about this. (BTW, I'm really looking forward to this despite my previous attitude toward Windows.)


First, I'm going to install on my WD Blk 750 GB drive.
If I understand correctly, 1 partition for Windows OS and another for Applications and documents. Size recommendations for each? Will other accounts be able to store their documents and access this partition too?


Next, drivers. What will I need?


Security. My friend recommends Avira AV. Is this a wise option or MSE?
What other security steps do I need to be taking to secure the OS?

Just asking for general advice as I've had no experience installing Windows.

I'll likely be installing on Thursday or Friday this week. Or maybe the weekend.

Thanks!
Mikey

[glc]

I don't see any need for partitions. I prefer MSE.

[strollin]

I'm with glc, I don't partition my drives anymore. I prefer to install the OS on a smaller drive then use a 2nd, larger drive to store my data.

I also like MSE.

[HAL9000]

I have 4x 500GB drives in RAID 5, no special partitions... and with third the vote for MSE.

[mikeymm]

1. ok, cool. MSE it is.

2. No Partitions. Fine. I can deal with it. I'm using my blk WD 750 GB for the for the full install for the speed. Check.

3. 1 TB WD Blue for backups, images, whatever. I'll likely partition that, in half at least.

4. Should I use my Gigabyte MOBO Disk install for the utilities and tools it offers?

5. How about secure easy-to-use password managers that are rather darn secure? Preferably (maybe) something cross-platform that's kick butt! I don't want anyone hacking into my stuff without one hell of a fight!

6. Anything else before I take the plunge?

Thanks for all the tips!

Mikey

[glc]

4. Use it for any required drivers and maybe the temperature/voltage monitoring program.