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Norton Internet Security Review

Symantec's Norton Internet Security is a world-class comprehensive security solution. The 2007 offering feels like an all new product. With an easy-to-use fresh new interface, it seems to run by itself. And, performance improvements should quiet some critics of previous versions.

Norton makes twoUntil now Norton had three options. The third was SystemWorks. While the 2006 version is still available, I suspect this is being phased out. premier antivirus products: Norton AntiVirus and Norton Internet Security. Think of Norton AntiVirus as providing essential protection. Internet Security includes Norton AntiVirus and adds an enhanced level of protection through additional tools to prevent other potential security threats. See my features table to quickly see the differences.

The most significant feature not found in Norton AntiVirus is the 2-way firewall that allows you to control inbound and outbound traffic. This is important if you run software that is prone to probes and attacks; or if you just want that extra control and security. Optionally, you can install additional modules to add parental controls, anti SPAM and privacy controls. Another plus is that you are licensed to install and run Internet Security on up to 3 different PC's. Great for small offices or families with multiple computers

PC Magazine (Oct. 2006) gave Norton Internet 2007 their Editor's Choice award. They cited these strengths: the strong antivirus and anti spyware, the great firewall tool, user interface, and improved performance. They also reported that the parental controls, privacy, and anti SPAM could have been stronger.

Norton Internet Security includes all the protection of Norton AntiVirus covering a broad range of the most prevalent threats. As with Norton AntiVirus, the user interface is straightforward and well organized. The feel is not "techie." Options are clear and well-defined.

Norton provides strong protection from viruses, Internet worms, and spyware. It does this extremely well. Viruses and spyware are detected and removed. Further, these threats are blocked before they get into your system. It stops the spread of viruses by email. Additionally, Norton finds and removes rootkits with deep scans. Rootkits are hidden payloads that might be used to gain entry to your system or do other harm. Norton has a reputation as the leading antivirus in the world. Millions of systems are protected by Norton.

One of the features that I like is really a non-feature. That is, Norton doesn't pester you with frequent pop-up messages. Some products feel they have to display trivial messages all the time to remind you that they're there are doing something. I don't like that. Especially, when it distracts me from my work. Norton's messages are subtle and only call attention to the most important issues -- the one you really want to know about, like when it has updated itself or when a real threat is detected.

With the LiveUpdate subscription service, Norton protection is updated continually and automatically for one year or, optionally, two years (for only a few more dollars). Generally, I recommend that you buy Norton AntiVirus with the two year subscription unless you don't expect to keep the computer that long, of course. This will give you two years of care free protection. In two years, it will probably be time to buy new antivirus software. Note that Norton will provide free upgrades for Vista -- Microsoft's new operating system for 2007.

Every software product has a downside. One down side of Norton is that it only runs on the " platforms" Windows® XP Home/XP Pro. If you are not running XP, here are some other great options.

Some reviewers wish that Norton's default anti spyware settings detected low risk threats out of the box. I don't agree. I have used several anti spyware tools that dig way to deep. Anti spyware products report suspicious things -- and some do that with a heavy hand. It can be difficult and time consuming to wade through the list to be sure that it only removed what I didn't want or need especially the first few times you scan. Of course, Norton will find the low risk threats if you wish but one does have to adjust the default settings to have it do that.

All Norton software can be downloaded immediately after purchase from Symantec's Official online store.

Before you buy, be sure to review the system requirements on the Norton AntiVirus product page or the Norton Internet Security product page (click on the "System Requirements" tab near the bottom). Follow instructions for installation carefully and always fully remove other security products (antivirus, anti spyware, etc.) before installing a new one. We recommend a full reboot after uninstalling each old software package and before installing a new one. Yes, it is a hassle but it is the best way to prevent unexpected errors before or after installation.

UK / Ireland

Buy boxed version on CD or download immediately after a purchase from Symantec.

Internet Security in Summary:

• World-class complete protection with antivirus and firewall
• Easy to use and non-intrusive
• Run on up to 3 PC's
• PC Magazine Editor's Choice

 

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