Secure IE settings?

I recenly did a fresh install of my system. Previously I have tweaked my IE for better security over many months by changing its default settings according to information I got from various sitea over this period of time. Those settings are now gone with the new OS insatllation and I made the mistake not to write these settings. Is there any site from where I can get inforamtion how to set IE for safe browsing.( I mainly use Opear but some of my friends like to use IE on my PC). BTW i don,t want a lot of tweaks, just few main changes in settings that can make IE secure wiythout compromizing its use too much.
Thansks.
( I am just talking about the settings provided within windows and IE itself. Already I have Spyware blaster protection with SafeXP and also know the options of IESPYad,MVP Host FIles).

 

these sites may help:

How to surf more safely with Internet Explorer (Windows XP SP2 version)
Securing Internet Explorer
Internet Explorer 6 and Outlook Express tweak guide
Internet Explorer Security Zones by Scott Schnoll

also another utility u may want to try is Secure-It. it changes some setting to secure IE.

once your done tweaking IE, check out this utility: Security Settings Backup

 

WSFuser,
Thanks for the links, I stored them on my computer.
If Firefox has more security holes than MSIE, these links will help me.

 

I just use it with SpywareBlaster that check if you have the good options, and change the Advanced Privacy Settings...

Never had a problem with this...

 

It shows only three options
Signed axtive X
unsigned active X
scripts etc
These are enough?

I remeber there was a site to check ur browser security settings but i gorgot it now.

 

Thanks for nice info. I will check them all.

 

Aside from IE-SpyAd, SpywareBlaster, SafeXP...you can also add HardenIT, and Spybot S&D's immunizer/bad download blocker function...

 

Thanks. Infact at the moment I am trying to decrease my security appliamces, so that,s why I reoved spubot, adaware( just relying on SuperAntispywrae free). Similarly updating IESpyAd was a pain, so I removed it. Host files- I never played here. BTW, I use Opera mainly, IE is used occassionally. SO I will just rely upon some change in the settings in IE and spyware blasters protection and OS security by SafeXP. At the moment my real time protection is only AV, firewall plus SnoopFree, I do safe surfing always.

 

How can I set it up for IE7?