I see negligible issues in my normal use of the system, though it largely depends on what you are using it for.
Yeah, I think use determines a lot. When I'm not really doing anything, just browsing or whatever, it's fine. But when I have a large batch of photos and run a CRC on them, I noticed it is much, much slower scanning each photo when I read it.
I think user behavior is one of the biggest factors. I use NoScript with Firefox, I don't accept any attachments via email (text only), and I don't download random software from the net. I think those three things alone protect me from 99% of what's out there. Because of that, I don't really want to waste time scanning everything over and over.
It sounds like my behavior and needs are a little different from others here, but I do appreciate the input. I do have an Acronis backup image of my system drive, so I guess I don't see a virus or malware as the worst thing in the world, although of course I'd rather not get one.
Thanks again for all the great input! This looks like a pretty nice user group here.
-Dave