Recently put together a
theme build, reused many parts from my 2014 build. Went back to a 4:3 monitor and haven't missed 1440P.
A. EQ is old, a build spec from 2005 would probably be overkill. Edit: You mention EQ Live, I have no idea as I wouldn't touch that monstrosity with a 20ft pole.
B. Can find builds on [H]ardforum and order from Amazon, although the shipping is slow. Newegg ain't what she used to be.
C. Windows Defender.
D. Good question, it will download things at will. Some hacker here can probably walk you through it. I have just accepted this is part of the tablet/console era of operating systems where they make sure things are taken care of and provided. Perhaps to avoid another Vista-like constant problem with the user base being retarded like me.