just got a new laptop with w 7, don't want to bog it down, tips please

The slow down is generally most noticeable when the drive becomes fuller it becomes slower. It's just how it is. This is part of the reason people are moving up to SSD's despite the premium price on them.
one thing I would run on a store bought computer is this though.
Crappy PC No More! | The PC Decrapifier

Yep, run the decrapifier and maybe dump McAfee and use MSE. I would also pick up a small (in physical size) external Hard Drive for my pictures and music.

When you are ready pick up a 120Gig SSD for the internal Hard Drive and you will have a fast setup

you could try faststone image resizer its free and very good.

FastStone Photo Resizer - Powerful Image Converter/Resizer

abacoian said:

I had my old laptop probably 6 years and just got a new one from best buy, created recovery disks and changed a few keyboard settings. After 2 days finally able to connect to thepld xp to transfer files. I want to install programs that I use and need to install disc for my camera but dread that over time installing programs may slow it down like it did xp.

Is there a good dl/software site with safe programs without shareware?
I assume that what you are looking for is a free program. When you have a need then post here and people will make recommendations. Never download from one of those one-stop sites. Always download directly from the originator's site.

Right now I just want a good free photo resizer. Microsoft Paint

I want to add my music and photos but wonder if it would be best to add them as needed via my zip drive? Depends upon the size of your hard dirve

And using IE since it came with w7 but like chrome. Just don't want any unessasary hiccups.

Right now using 1 month macafee free but wonder if a free antivirus like avast is sufficent? Immediately uninstall McaFee. Install Microsoft Security Essentials (MSE) Link in my sig.

I'm just looking for the best way to keep new computer safe and fast. Thank you for all help.

Ian

abacoin Welcome to SevenForums.
I've put answers into the quote.

I use MSE and Windows Firewall and have had no issues at all.
Might want to check msconfig and see what's loading on startup!

seavixen32 said:

I use Microsoft Security Essentials and Malwarebytes and have had no problems so far.

Seavixen32,
You peeked at my setup as I am running the same set up along with SAS.
Also do a monthly cleaning with X-Lax....Great system cleaner!