Help with buying a new laptop

[witness51]

So I'm getting a laptop as a graduation gift, and I was wondering if my fellow Escapists could help me decide on a few things.
First, basic information about the computer I want:
1. The only game I will be downloading will be Minecraft
2. I will mostly be using it for schoolwork and surfing the internet
3. I will download iTunes onto it
4. Must be under $1,200
Next, what I need to know before buying a computer, i.e. any tips for a first time buyer.
Last, what I should have for the actual computer:
1. What model would you recommend for what I will be using it for
2. What security firewall should I get
3. Anything I should know about the setup of the computer

Thank you!

 

[SniperMacFox]

I'm currently going through a similar process for uni myself, but I can't really reccomend specific models in stores (UK resident) but what I'd reccomend in terms of specs are:

* 3GB RAM minimum. Most laptops don't have a specific memory for the graphics card and as such having more RAM will allow you to play Minecraft on a higher setting.
* Dual Core Processor minimum. Similar reason, you want things to run it helps having as fast a processor as possible.
* 300 GB Hard Drive minimum. This one is kinda easy going as I don't know how much you intend to save onto it, but from what I've seen so far most laptops have this or more in terms of Hard Drive space. Sometimes it's worth spending those few dollars more if it means an extra 50 or 100 GB.
* Security wise laptops with Windows 7 installed have the Microsoft Saftey & Security Centre (as far as I'm aware) which is a more than competant security provider for web browsing and file sharing (although if you go snooping around REALLY suspicious websites you have only yourself to blame.) If you want an alternative then I'd also suggest "Avast!" as it's free, updates very often and doesn't use as much RAM as other antivirus programs (I'm looking at you, Norton.)
* iTunes runs on just about anything, just another comment on Hard Drive space as when using it for music databases it tends to fill up quite sharpish.

Other than that I'd really reccomend shopping around and internet reviews, as nowadays most large shopping chains sell decent laptops at affordable prices too and it's always worth checking to see if what you're buying has a good review or not. Happy Hunting!