Windows XP: Surviving the First Day
If you have ever been concerned with catching a virus, or having your computer exploited, after completing a fresh install of Windows XP then this guide by the SANS Institute is exactly what you need. Windows XP: Surviving the First Day is written for the average computer user, in order to ensure that they are able to successfully complete an installation of Windows XP without fear of getting 0wned, so to speak.
This is probably one of the best written, well laid out articles on this very subject. Whether you are in to computer security or not, this is a guide that should be followed by all.