Virus safety from Guest OS

[adityap]

Hi,
I have Win XP SP3 as Host and same as Guest machine. My questions might be asked in different forms, but I just wanted to make myself clear on the purpose that I am trying to use it for.

I have a ADSL modem for Internet connection and my sole purpose of using a VM is to save my Guest OS from the harm of viruses. Now my questions:

1. Can I just configure my Guest OS to connect to internet and my Host OS not even connecting to Internet. My intention is to cut off my Host OS from any Internet activity I do ( except for may be Virus Def updates) so that the Virus chances from Internet is 'none' ( forgetting the pen drive virus and stuff..)

2. If I take care of what data (folders) I share from my Guest OS and scan it properly and stuff, is there any way I can get virus onto my Host OS.

3. I am low on Network side, but when I configure the Guest OS to access network, does it be in the Workgroup with my Host OS? Does the Guest OS get a separate IP altogether?

4. Lastly, any link of step by step configuration for Host:Win XP to Guest:Win XP (or Win 7) network configuration. I am not able to get it right by reading User manual.

Thanks & appreciate the help and work you guys are doing.
~Aditya

[Sasquatch]

Please read the Forum Posting Guide and search the forums, this security question has been asked before and explained in detail.