Norton’s lineup of Window’s antivirus products offers the perfect combination of top-notch malware detection, backup software and a staggering 25GB of online storage. This antivirus software, however, saps system performance immensely during scans and even the most expensive Norton product lacks some of the features that are present in high-end security suites, like file shredding and encryption.
From Antivirus Basic to Norton Security Standard, Deluxe and Premium, Norton really tries to give you the freedom to choose the features you require to protect your PC or a whole digital family. Its pricing scheme, however, is inflexible and as such compels users with multiple devices to purchase features they may not need. We cannot fault Norton’s malware protection, which is obviously excellent so here is our Norton Security Review.
The Cost and What Is Covered
All of the four Norton programs utilize the same Windows software interface and malware scanning technology, but they have an inverted pyramid of features, cost and number of devices every program covers.
Norton Antivirus Basis: This $40 entry-level program protects only one PC against malware. You will get browser extensions and a password manager but no technical support apart from billing, subscription and activation problems. In the event of a crisis, you’ll be all by yourself.
Norton Security Standard: Going for $60, this software only covers one computer. It, however, adds a firewall to reinforce what Windows already has in addition to a home network scanner. There is also 24/7 support and a money-back guarantee if your software doesn’t remove a threat.
Norton Security Deluxe: Going for $80, this version mirrors the Standard product but offers protection for 5 devices plus an online account to manage all the devices.
Norton Security Premium: Going for $90, Norton Security Premium includes automatic-backup software, parental controls and covers ten devices. You will also get 25GB of encrypted online storage.
Scanning and Detection
Norton antivirus is an easy program to install and use. It has a clean and well-organized dashboard, so you can easily find and select a task you want to perform, reports you need to read and quarantine any files you need empty. This program scans all incoming instant messages and emails for threats and those identified are sent to quarantine until the program is sure they are malware. Additionally, it detects whenever you access a removable storage media, in case viruses, try to sneak through into your computer.
Privacy and Protection
This antivirus program comes with a bunch of other tools that go beyond virus protection. One of these features is the password manager that stores all usernames and passwords associated with your online accounts and if a hacker tries to steal your password, they will swipe the password manager’s program which is overlay useless. Norton allows you to manage your devices and security subscriptions from one online account.
Norton Security Review: Final Thoughts
Norton Security guards you against phishing and all known and newly discovered malware, in addition to having a rescue CD. This program scores high for malware detection and removal and doesn’t create too much lag to interrupt basic functions like online movie watching or web browsing.