linux has quite a learning curve but it'll probably be the most stable and safest OS to use, hackers tend to go after windows cause they know so many folks use it. But a easy solution would be to use firefox, I think it can be downloaded for free at mozilla. It'll really keep a lot of spyware out and you won't get stupid pop ups anymore. It's really good. I logged on with explorer once awhile ago and after 10 min I ran spybot search and destroy and had several listings. I use firefox for several monthes and no spyware.