I have NOD32 and use it for manual scanning of some suspicous files sometimes...
In general I don't use AV software for several years now. I think many newbies or average computer users use it because it gives them some sense of security (even though it can be false), but you really need to have some knowledge underneat it.
Here are some tips from me that keep my box free from viruses and other malware:
- have a firewall installed, kerio works fine for me on Windows XP
- always keep up to date browser, I use FF always the latest version
- avoid risky websites, eg. warez/porn/scam
Also, as long as you do not open executable attachments from your e-mail you will be just fine.
That's my 2c, I hope someone will find these tips useful... I haven't had a virus for 7-8 years