With basic knowledge, I strongly recommend learning about the PC, Internet and Software before diving into Testing Antivirus products on a VM or spare PC, as many things can go wrong even for experienced users.
Downloading and playing with Malware (malicious software) is dangerous and unpredictable, some malware can detect a virtual or sandboxed environment and won't deliver it's payload.
I have to agree with Huracan,with basic knowledge the testing of malware is probably not a good idea and definitely not on your everyday PC.A junk PC is sometimes a far better way to go when testing malware.Other than a backup plan it looks good!!
Thanks for sharing your config
lucky to got Norton IS 6 months key & installed Norton Internet Security since last June. i felt secure using Norton IS + Malwarebytes.
Norton - install & forget