I have been reading on different sites to download different anti-spyware programs. Right now I have:
1. Ad-aware
2. Spybot
3. IE Spyad w/ Zoned Out
4. PC pitstop driver alert
5. Spyware Blaster
6. ATF Cleaner
7. PC Pitstop Driver Alert
8. Hosts Xpert
9. Windows Defender
Will these slow down my system, or make it take longer to shut down and restart my comp? Is there anything on this list that I should not have? If it's not a big deal, does anyone recommend any more apps I should download or things to do to make my system better?
You list sounds pretty good. Personally I havent tried "PC Pitstop Driver Alert", so I cant give my opinion on that. I dont think you will need Windows Defender, IMO it is rubbish. I woulr reccommned that you read the link in my signature called "PC safety and security: What do I need?"
Also AVG antispyware and SUPERAntispyware are both very good AVS
If I install almost all of the reputable spyware removers and system optimizers, etc. on my comp, will it slow down my system? Will there be any negative consequences?
yes that will slow down your system by alot.
Right now I would opt for a faster computer over a secure one, so I would prefer speed over an increased possibility of a virus, etc (still want an anti-virus though). I'd like my comp to shut down and restart quickly, but of course it's not that big of a deal.
With that in mind...I was wondering what the computer "gurus" think is the best way I can optimize my computer? If you have a lot of experience, then what would/do you do, and what do you download for your comp? What programs should I download or buy? I'm willing to pay money for programs that I can buy at the store or pay to activate full versions of trial software, etc. if it will help optimize my computer or help my computer's speed. My system specifications are at the bottom of this post.
I dont personally use programs to optimize my computer, I have never seen a need for them. The only program I use is ATF cleaner to clean up all the junk.
Also, what is the best anti-virus that you would recommend?
I personally Like Avira Anitvir the best. It is free and very good. Here is a list of three very good free AV's.
My comp came with Norton 2007, and I just upgraded to Norton 2008 at the recommendation of an HP customer support specialist.
I realize these are subjective questions, but I can't understand why that is. I would think that there would be a "best" program out there for everything. Really however I'm just interested in an expert opinion.
Right now I am running disk defrag on a daily schedule. I regularly run ad-aware, spybot, ATF cleaner, and the disk cleanup tool. I just deleted a lot of junk on my desktop, a lot of programs/junk using the add/remove programs window, and went into the folder browser and manually deleted several things. I very rarely run scandisk (where you have to restart your comp). I don't think I have ever heard anyone mention it. Should I run it more often?
I dont think it is needed to be run regually unless there is a problem.
I used to have 3 antivirus programs, but someone recommended against that, so I only have Norton now. Would it be ok if I also installed AVG antivirus along with Norton?
Nope. Have more than on AV installed on as system at one time is a very bad idea. As the AV's Will conflict with each other and cause system instability.
Would it be beneficial to download all the antivirus' free trials as possible and do a scan on my computer with them just to make sure I don't have a hidden virus, and then uninstall them all?
I wouldn't recommend it. Same as I said above. You can do online scans for viruses (Use as many as you like). Here are some:
Panda
Kaspersky
Trend Micro
Is the best way to do a full scan with an anti-virus (such as Norton) in safe mode?
I think only if you cant remove an infection in normal mode you could try safe mode
Thank you. I know there are a lot of newbie questions on here, but these are the things I've always wondered, so I thought I might try to post my questions.
There is nothing wrong with asking questions :). Everyone has to learn somewhere 
My main question is just how do I best optimize my computer for speed (besides what I'm already doing), and the secondary question...what is the best anti-virus. Is Norton any good?
If it is speed you want, dont go with Norton. It is a resource hog. Try some of the free suggestions I listed above
Thanks a lot for reading.
Brad
HP Pavilion Media Center m8102n, Intel Core 2 Quad CPU 2.4 GHz, 289 GB HD space, 3GB RAM, Vista Home Premium 32-bit, GE Force 7350 LE video, DirectX 10, RealTek HD audio or VXI 7.02 Generic USB audio, and DVDRW