Bootcamp.
 

Okay, so here's my problem.

I am currently typing this on a MacBook Pro that's running OS X v10.4.6 (I think.) It is my full intent to boot-camp it today, and I even have a new Windows XP license ready to go.

Now, I understand that when you're running windows, you're basically just running a PC and that means that you need to have virus protection. However, I'm only going to use Windows for games, and the only time I'll be online is if I'm playing a game online. This leads me to ask two questions.

1) If I'm only using it for games online, do I still need the virus protection?

2) Through that free software thread, I found some free virus protection. However, to get it and install it I need to go into Windows and go online in order to get it, thus exposing my computer to those degenerate hordes of viruses. Is that my only option, or is there a better way?

Online gaming opens all sorts of ports and annoying jerks who you are beating soundly despite thier scripts can usually find your IP via your connectoin to the host server.

There is the option of downloading stuff like AVG via Mac first, as a .exe file, burning it to CD, and then uploading it on your new windows PC afterwards.

Also, look for Kerio Personal Firewall. Best firewall I've found so far, and it understands that even though something might use the same port, doesn't mean it's the same THING. it'll block everything until you tell it what specfiically to unblock.

Black Ice for the firewall.

I am cheap, and looking for free stuff. So far, Kerio and Black Ice have come up as something I actually need to buy.

Suggestions?

(I am also heading over to the free software thread right now.)

Zonealarm is a good free firewall. I always see it at the top of rating lists. Download it in Mac OS and move it to your windows partition (you will see it below your Macintosh HD desktop icon).
Crossover Office and parallels are becoming really viable alteratives to bootcamp. Their 3d gaming gets more refined with each update. You may want to check out their compatibility centers before you put that microsoft abonimation on your hard drive.

Kerio has a free version that basically says "If you don't buy this we're locking it permenantly in ADVANCED MODE" and you can be all like "Oh but wait THAT'S WHAT I USE ANYWAY." so kerio is still a good choice for firewall.

If you configure IE to block all third party cookies and prompt for first party cookies, you ought to be able to foray onto the net on your PC to get whatever anti-spyware anti-virus program you want.

Or you could use Firefox and cut down your chances even further.

And it's not like it's totally impossible to remove things that manage to get on your PC. Your paranoia is a little overzealous.

That is one of the funniest things I've read all day! There is no such thing when it comes to my baby- err... computer.

I run windows on my MacBook, and I've never had a problem, but I think the school installed virus protection onto it when I got it. I guess it would be a good idea to try downloading it to a CD or something, and then installing it.