Kaspersky gets great reviews. Haven't tried it myself yet, but am planning to. From what I've read about it, it's great for both beginners and advanced users.

http://www.kaspersky.com/personal-security

BTW depending on who answers this thread of yours, you will get like 10 different suggestions.

I use AVG myself, but it is not top of the line in my mind.

Also start reading through the Sticky threads in the forum. You will learn how to steer clear of the bad files that way.