Optimum setup and utilities

[Yankee]

Hi,

I am a new vista user -- not sure yet about it. I would like recommendations for:

1. Firewall - stickwith WIndows Firewall or get Zone Alarm
2. Pop-up blocker - any reason to add one besides what's in IE?
3. Anti-Virus - AVG or some other freeware? I am concerned that Norton Tool's seem to have too many features that eat cycles. I would never load Ghost on a computer again after the way it sucks up CPU.
4. Backup software - any recommendation on backup software?

As far as setup -- what can I do to optimize the system for better operation. I only have 2 gig of RAM and it uses more than 50% just idling after boot up.

Any inputs are welcome.

Thanks,

Jim