The best I could come up with is an open source program called TrueCrypt. Here's a link to it and you can decide if you want to use it or not. There is a wealth of knowledge on Google if you look.
http://www.truecrypt.org/
Your testing over 4000 miles across the big pond. I have a 10 meg line and when I test in London I only get 5-8meg, so there is a loss. I'm using a Acer laptop also.
The JVC Everio GZ-MG330 looks pretty good. You can get it at Walmart cheaper than tigerdirect. Walmart also has all three colors.
http://www.walmart.com/catalog/product.do?product_id=9135493
I've been using AVG for years and have not had any real problems. You can get it here.
http://www.download.com/AVG-Anti-Virus-Free-Edition/3000-2239_4-10320142.html