Now that the biggie is over, the rest is much simpler.

If there are any requests, comments, corrections or additions, please go ahead and keep them coming.

Utilities

7-Zip is a file archiver that supports many formats, and is free.

ISO Recorder - This allows you to burn "iso" disc images from within windows without the need to resort to other programs such as Nero

Anti Spyware

There are two good options that I am aware of here, but I have not used either in a good while:

Spybot Search & Destroy - Simple, easy and very good.

Every Windows Based PC should have an up to date antivirus solution installed. A lot of the popular/advertised options have either a fixed or an annual cost. however, they may not always be the best and could even be resource hogs. There are a few free contenders out there that I am aware of here.

The rule of thumb is: Avoid Norton. It really is a system hog and replacing it with another alternative could give your PC a new lease of life.

Microsoft Security Essentials

Microsoft's Security Essentials is the new kid on the block and its free to all users who have a legitimate copy of windows, so its a good alternative to the others below where some have a "home use only" requirement.

It seems to work well, have decent detection rates, and since it is from Microsoft, it should have staying power atleast. However it may not be as performant or as fast as some of the others on the market.