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10:40 pm
I recently bought a new HP laptop and (of course) it has a 60-day trial version of Norton Internet Suite. I've actually been pretty impressed with how the Norton suite has been working. It's caught a couple of threats already. On my previous laptop I had the free version of AVG, and I don't ever recall it catching any viruses or threats. My question is, should I go ahead and register the Norton (around $60 per year), or is there a free security suite out there that is as good (or nearly as good) as Norton that you can recommend? What do you guys use on your PC's and laptops for security? Thanks.
10:58 am
November 3, 2009
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All the AntiVirus scanners have pretty much the same capabilities for finding threats. Some are better/faster. Free products do not provide much support. You pay for support and convenience.
I have read some good things about the newest Norton/Symantec Security products. For a while, these programs were getting so full of bloat, the cure was worse than the disease. Now scans are fast and unobtrusive. Downloading the necessary definition updates has been improved, too.
My complaints about Symantec are diminshing and I no longer recommend against the latest version, so it is a matter of choice and money.
A lot of what is in the Suite is redundant. Browsers and mail systems take care of most spam and web threats. Microsoft's Firewall is fine.
Don't be overly impressed by reporting of potential threats.
I use Vipre ($49/year for 3 or more PCs) on our network except on the little netbook. For that I am using the free Microsoft Security Essentials.
Staying up to date with all your software and hardware is what really keeps you safe and your computer running well.
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8:45 pm
I hope you don't mind me just saying a few words on the subject. I also use Microsoft Essentials on my laptop and AVG on my desk top and oddly enough, Viper on my business main frame. I have found you need different sercurity for different situations. I think AVG and Microsoft will serve you well on a home computer or laptop. One thing is for sure, unless you need the extra security, like for a business – I would not pay for it. I will defer to Jim on the final advise. Just my thought.
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