Win XP comes with IE6 preinstalled.
This is the general routine to follow (from my view)
1. Install Windows. (Activate if needed)
2. Go straight to MS Update and get every service pack and update that is available.
3. Install and configure your applications. (Office, mIRC, etc)
4. Install Firewall if you don't like the Win XP one.
5. Install Anti-virus software. If you are in doubt, install first and scan the downloaded files but make sure you turn off the scanner when installing to aide system stability.
With a bit of luck mIRC and IE6 should then work.
