What basic programs does my laptop needs?

I'm a college freshman and I just got a laptop (runs on Windows XP). What are the programs I need to install? I've got the anti-virus and firewall software down, but is there anything else I have to get? Please help! =)

What basic programs does my laptop needs?symantic

Here's how I roll with my lappy...

--- First, take off any unnecessary programs that came pre-installed (anti-virus, firewall, FREE programs and games... just go into Add/Remove Programs and go crazy)

http://www.firefox.com Internet browser... this one is a MUST!

http://www.lavasoft.com Download Ad-aware SE Personal. Destroys all the spyware and mailicious code. The ONLY program you'll need instead of all the other stuff like Norton.

http://www.itunes.com For your music needs. Even if you don't have an iPod, it's a good free program to organize all your music and download videos.

http://www.pogo.com This site is full of free games. If you feel like springing a few bucks, download a few of the Pogo-ToGo games to play offline. I always play Word Whomp.

That's all I can think of... I hope your freshman year goes well! Don't drink too much and try and order pizza only once a week :)

What basic programs does my laptop needs?viruses