Protecting Computer From Virus Protection?

Question

When downloading things such as free online games, software and stuff, how do i protect my computer from viruses? Some kind of program that warns me or

Answer 1

avg free would work.  

Answer 2

When... downloading... choose... Save to Disk... then right click on the download and choose check with your anti virus. Then if clean... its safe to open.

Answer 3

use google pack. It's a program that keeps virus and spyware from your pc free of charge, http://safe-google.com/pack