How do I know if my virus-protection is working? Here is a quick test that you could do find out.

Open notepad (or new text document)
Copy this code into the text file

X5O!P%@AP[4\PZX54(P^)7CC)7}$EICAR-STANDARD-ANTIVIRUS-TEST-FILE!$H+H*

then save it with the name fakevirus.exe

If this file gets deleted immediately,that means your antivirus is working and updated

If the file exists, you may have to update your protection, or if you are using a free product maybe think about buying the retail version. I have found free programs are sometimes not as comprehensive,and have limitations.
Trial version software is a little better, meaning you get full functionality,but only for a limited time.

And it's good to have a built-in firewall as well as a spyware/malware cleaner. Probably asking alot, but I expect to be safe online. As well, I don't think the windows firewall is that great!
I have found a really good-looking  all-in-one protection online lately, and it comes with a 2 month trial.

It's called BULLGUARD INTERNET SECURITY.
http://www.bullguard.com/try/bullguard-internet-security.aspx



A tip, don't open emails from people you don't know!