Norton Internet Security 2009
$69.99
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Like their 2009 antivirus product, Norton's Internet Security is a solid answer to all other security issues facing your PC today. Compared to last years version, Norton Internet Security 2009 is a step ahead in many ways.
For instance, the ugly interface is gone, virus updates are faster, and most importantly, the overall system footprint is much, much lighter.
Norton has taken a lot of flak over the last few versions for releasing heavy and clumsy antivirus and security applications. Not so with this version. They've kept most of the power and streamlined the rest.
But that doesn't mean there aren't some serious issues to consider. For one, their support system still leaves much to be desired. And its spam filtering is virtually useless. Still, there's plenty to like about Norton Internet Security 2009.
Norton Internet Security Suite Editor's Overview
- Great antivirus and antispyware
- Fast install
- Easy to use interface
- Decent firewall
- Faster virus definition updates
- Insight whitelisting
NEW - 'Insight' whitelisting
NEW - Faster scan
NEW - Lighter footprint
NEW - Faster Install
What Does Norton Internet Security 2009 Do Right?
The most impressive features are its antivirus scanning and prevention, its easier to use interface, fast and easy install, and overall lighter resource footprint.
Gone are the days of Norton's poor reputation as a clumsy and heavy Internet security application.
This year, they've taken their criticism seriously and really streamlined everything from the install to the resource allocation.
Norton's antivirus scan, elimination, and protection have remained able contenders all these years, and this year is no different. In independent tests, Norton Internet Security ranked
well, placing just behind Kaspersky and BitDefender.
Norton's firewall did pretty well but could be better. It's smarter than before, but our testing showed some malware could sneak through.
Perhaps Norton's best innovation yet is easily their file whitelisting called 'Insight.' Insight determines if a file or program is trusted, then whitelists that file or program and never
wastes time scanning it again. This really speeds up scanning and resource use.
Norton Internet Security Suite Features
- Good antivirus
- Good antispyware
- Solid botnet protection
- Internet worm protection
- Pulse Updates
- Rootkit protection
- Norton Insight (whitelisting)
- Good two-way firewall
- Average identity protection
- Decent antiphishing
Where Does Norton Internet Security Go Wrong?
The two features that need the most improvement are the spam filtering and the technical support. To their credit, Norton has gotten a lot better at offering real, useful support, but
they continue to push premium services for a steep fee.
Most other antivirus and internet security suites have extensive forums, knowledge bases, phone, email, and chat support – all for free. Norton, however, makes it very difficult for the
average user to get to a real person. You need to jump through several hoops just to get in contact with someone.
Then there's the "spam filter." This year's Internet Security actually did worse than last year. In independent tests, over 30% of valid emails were classified as 'spam.' Last year only
canned 10%. Your email provider should have built in spam filters that leave Norton's in the dust. Don't even bother turning this feature on.
Support
While Norton does have free support, but it's hard to get to. Norton still pushes premium, paid support too often.
Given the strong support from the makers of VIPRE and BitDefender, it's hard to justify Norton's stance on this.
Norton Internet Security Software Conclusion
Despite some obvious drawbacks, Norton Internet Security 2009 is still a viable security software suite for overall PC protection. The antivirus is still strong, the firewall does its job well, and we can't get enough of the lighter footprint and pulse updates.
The only reason Norton is still number three on our list is because they're still playing catch-up with some serious contenders like
VIPRE Antivirus and
BitDefender. But that's ok, Norton is still solidly in the game and worth exploring.
Norton Internet Security Software System Requirements
Windows XP with Service Pack 2 Home Edition/Professional/Media Center Edition
Windows Vista Home/Home Premium/Ultimate/Business****
- 300MHz or faster processor
- 256MB of RAM
- 200 MB of available hard disk space
- Standard Web browser
Email scanning supported for POP3 and SMTP compatible email clients.
Support for AntiSpam Feature
- Outlook 97 or higher
- Outlook Express 6.0 or higher
Supported instant messenger clients
- AOL
- Yahoo!
- Microsoft
- Trillian
Internet browsers (phishing protection)
- Microsoft Internet Explorer 6.0 (32-bit only) and later
- Mozilla Firefox 2.0 and later
****Must meet minimum Windows Vista operating system requirements
Platforms: Windows XP Home/XP Pro/VISTA
$69.99
