This question is a little opinion based, but I think it can be based in fact and I would prefer answers backed up with a link to a reputable company if possible.
The problem is at my job, we have "okay" hardware for the developers, laptops running Windows XP (I know) with dual core 2.3 Ghz processor, 2GB of memory and 60 GB hard disk @7200 rpm however, the amount of virus scan and security agents and big brother software on these make them unusable when scans are running. My company insists on running full disk virus scans every monday and "smart scans" every other day.
I appreciate the concern for viruses as much as the next guy, however it is hindering our work and we are looking for a new setup that allows the developers to work unimpeded by scans, yet provides virus protection et al that the company is looking for.
Keep in mind my company is not really willing to change antivirus vendors, so we're looking at a developer oriented solution because most of the business users do not experience these issues.
UPDATE:
Company policy requires that all laptops (which I have) are taken home each evening unless you have an office to lock it in. Because I am office-less, I have to take it home each evening.
I am willing to listen to any scenario, switch to a desktop, switch to a different OS, any of the above. Just looking for setups that people currently use, that seem to work for their developers, in particular java developers.
We also run a lot of software on our laptops, an applicatoin server, a database, email client, developer IDE, database IDE and other random things as required.
END UPDATE.
Any suggestions?