After my affair with Windows 7 ended (not by choice), I was able to work through reinstalling Windows XP Media Center 2005 on my laptop.  It wasn't fun, and Acer was of zero use, but Windows XP Media Center is back up and running.  Normally, I would install AT&T McAfee suite, but I was intrigued by a Microsoft Essentials hyperlink shown when I installed Windows 7.  It turns out the Essentials is free for home users.  So I thought, what the heck, I'll try it for a few days.

It works great!  Did I mention it is free for home users?  What do I like about it?  Simplicity.  No special firewalls, no "network setup".  Just a simple virus scanner.

I don't know how long free will last, but I'll take it for as long as it lasts.