[MarkL]

Microsoft exec calls XP hack 'frightening' by Tom Espiner, November 13, 2007

Any "computer professional" could have told you this... As someone who's dealt with Windows computers on networks for many years, when I'm setting up a brand new computer, I don't hook it up to the network until after I've patched it as far as I can, and installed both AV and anti-spyware software. I recall a demonstration that showed a Windows XP system on a live Internet link being attacked and compromised within 10 minutes of going live.

Mark

[SunkenCiv]

I’d read that a new W install has a 50/50 chance of infection within 30 minutes of going online for the first time.

[goldstategop]

Windows Vista is more much more secure due to Windows hardening. You have to attack the machine at the lowest level of privileges and unlike in Windows XP that reduces the number of vectors available for attack simply because permissions no longer run at an "all or nothing" level.

"Show me just what Mohammed brought that was new, and there you will find things only evil and inhuman, such as his command to spread by the sword the faith he preached." - Manuel II Palelologus