Two OS or 1 OS , less prone to virus

[faithfoo]

I am purchasing a p.2.6 FSB 800 intel with 2* 256 DDR 400

I am intending to use the PC as a)HTPC ( DVD playback , D scaling analog sources) , and b) storing video files

On the other hand, I wanted to access internet broadband, install certain applications and Microsoft Outlook application

*****
How do I separate them as internet opens up the possibility of getting virus

WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO SET IT UP ??
1)Does it makes sense to separate say one Operating system, 1 hard disc for

Dedicated HTPC usuage & storage of data/video files

2) another Operating system , Hard disc for internet surfing,
and installing other less impt applications to test HTPC ..( For instance , Win DVD on the other system , and maybe install POWER DVD to run from this operating system )

3) Are there difficulties transferring all the downloaded video files from this operating system to the other .?

[KpeX]

I don't think I can answer all your questions, but I have two suggestions.

1. Read rule 6.

2. If you're looking to avoid viruses, don't use Microsoft Outlook. It is targeted by many. If you really need a mail client, there are plenty of good free ones (try searching for Eudora or Foxmail).

[NeoNSX]

Another leet email client is "The Bat"; 99% virus-proof.


If you're really paranoid about viruses & are considering running multiple OS's, i'd suggest running Virtual PC for Windows v5 (http://www.connectix.com/products/vpc5w.html). This way you can run an OS within an OS without having to reboot; but still isolating them both (and it can undo changes so you always have a 'fresh' OS)

check out the trial... it's really good!