Ok first I just got word that my internet protection (Verizon Internet Secutiry Suite) wont be free anymore which means my cheap arse needs to find one that is LOL. My wife has been using aVast for about a year now and seems happy with it, so Im giving it a shot too.
My question is, is the windows firewall good enough or if there something better?
Hi :
Any knowledgeable recommendations on software firewalls should ONLY be
made knowing the SPECIFIC “Name” of the Operating System ( Win XP SP2,
Win XP SP3, one of the "Vista"s, etc ), which you have NOT provided at
this point in time .
In addition to antivirus and a firewall, should ALSO have antiSPYWARE/
antiTROJAN program(s), like the FREE Version of “SUPERAntiSpyware” from
www.superantispyware.com AND “Malwarebytes’ Anti-Malware” from
www.malwarebytes.org/mbam.php .
I have Windows XP Home w/SP2
Do you have a hardware firewall in a router, for example?
Do you want outbound blocking as well as inbound?
Do you want malware blocking (HIPS), or just a conventional firewall?
Well now Im pretty much lost (more then usual) LOL. Im just looking for something to keep my comp safe as can be.
My recommendations are in the link below.
http://forum.avast.com/index.php?topic=40371.msg338393#msg338393
Plus, you really should upgrade to SP3 for increased security. 
Thanks Ill check it out. Btw Ive heard bad things about SP3. Is it as bad as people say or what?
While I understand that a few have had problems with SP3, I have not had any problems since SP3 was released.
took your advice and downloaded it. When I rebooted, 2 command windows popped up. Is that normal?
Simple answer : YES
Since it’s totally upgrading your system, that’s perfectly normal.
Since you’ve mentioned SP3, you’re most likely using Windows XP.
I’ve been using PCTools Firewall Plus without any problems for quite some time.