I was one of the first to go with the 'new' deal from Pipex and I have never been able to fault it. I still think it is probably the best deal around for the speed. I am very happy with Pipex.
As for anti/virus and firewall. I have Zone Alarm and I think it is brilliant. I also have the pro version of McAfee and I just leave it to do it's on thing. It gets updates automatically and installs them. Happy to say I am again best pleased.
As for Norton. In my opinion it slows the computer down and it has too much control. Wouldn't have it near mine.