Microsoft Security Essentials is a fantastic and free antivirus that installs quickly, actively watches for viruses, and doesn't bug you with tons of prompts.  http://www.microsoft.com/security_essentials/

Mozy is a backup program that stores your data online.  It's automatic and easy to set up.  Not sure about the security? Mozy can't even open your files once you encrypt them.  www.mozy.com 

Picasa is another wonderfully free product from Google.  It's a picture editor and organizer, and you can also email directly from it.  The key is how well laid out the interface is. Simple and easy... the way we like it. www.picasa.com