System Tool Removal

[davewr]

Not used my laptop since Xmas so decided to run it on Sunday to get updates. Imediately got the System Tool problems as described on many web sites. Tried for about an hour to get it to open in safe mode so I could try to run the anti virus programs I had. I'd put on AVG, AdAware and Spybot after reading posts on Answerbank. When I was about ready to give up, a message came up that Windows could not start the computer and did I want it to try to fix the problem. I clicked 'Yes' and after a few minutes it opened up as normal without System Tool being there. To make sure it had gone (after checking posts on Answerbank) I downloaded Spyware Doctor onto a memory stick at work and ran it last night. I could then update AVG but not AdAware or Spybot.
Should all 4 programs be on the computer at the same time or should I uninstall some.
Thanks.

[AlBags]

I would get rid of everything and use Microsoft Securty Essentials (has to be a genuine Windows install, etc) and Malwarebytes Antimalware.
AVG is not too good at the moment.

[davewr]

Thanks for the reply. I've looked at the sites for your suggestions and it seems a good idea, but dosen't the Microsoft Security Essentials include anti-malware? Should the Malwarebytes be used as well? Also, I have not put a firewall on, just what came with the computer. Any suggestions for one?
Thanks again.