8.3/ 10
SCORE
Norton Antivirus
Pros
- Extensive parental controls available on some plans
- Cloud backups for your most sensitive data
- High-quality safe browser
Cons
- Identity theft protection features are only for US-based users
- Higher resource usage than most competitors
- Reaching human customer support is difficult
Norton, which began its journey as an antivirus company in 1982, has evolved into a comprehensive cybersecurity provider. Its offerings now include a password manager, a safe browser, cloud backups for critical data, and privacy monitoring tools. For users in the U.S., the LifeLock plans add an extra layer of identity theft protection and insurance. The tools I explored were generally user-friendly and effective, with parental controls making Norton particularly appealing for families.
The core of Norton’s appeal lies in its antivirus software, featuring an easy setup process and intuitive navigation. The desktop versions are equipped with optimization tools for both Windows and MacOS, allowing users to update software and eliminate junk files with minimal processing power and time, enabling a swift return to daily tasks.
In addition to the antivirus, Norton’s safe browser, scam detection tools, and privacy monitoring system enhance user control over data usage and protection against online threats. Although the included storage may not suffice for comprehensive backups, Norton’s cloud backup feature is a valuable addition not commonly found among antivirus providers. Parents can also take advantage of Norton Family, which allows for the installation of parental controls on their children’s devices.
Overall, Norton offers robust multilayered protection at competitive prices, starting at just for the first year. Plans can cover up to 10 devices, making it an excellent choice for individuals with multiple devices to secure. However, those concerned about efficiency may find Norton’s higher resource usage compared to alternatives like Bitdefender and Malwarebytes a drawback. Additionally, international users may be disappointed by the absence of identity theft protection outside the U.S., for which Malwarebytes is a recommended alternative.
Norton antivirus features, plans, and pricing: Cybersecurity for all, identity theft protection for the US
Norton’s antivirus software encompasses all the essential features expected from a premium antivirus tool, including real-time protection, manual scans, automated scans, and scan scheduling. The cybersecurity suites further include tools such as scam detection, dark web monitoring, and, for U.S. residents, identity theft protection.
A significant advantage of Norton is its parental controls, a feature not commonly found in many antivirus tools, making it an ideal choice for parents or caregivers. The cloud backups offer additional security for vital documents, although the limited storage may not suffice for complete device protection.
One notable limitation of Norton is the absence of family plans; while users can add devices to their plan, individual login credentials and identity protection for those devices are not available. For those seeking to add multiple users to their cybersecurity suite, alternatives like Bitdefender or Malwarebytes may be more suitable.
Free Norton tools
While Norton does not offer a free version of its antivirus, several free cybersecurity tools are available, including a password manager, data breach scan, safe browser, and safe search. The Norton Genie app allows users to share suspicious messages or content with an AI for a quick analysis of potential issues.
Norton AntiVirus Plus
Norton AntiVirus Plus caters to users with basic security needs and limited budgets, providing a fully-featured antivirus, password manager, and 2GB of cloud backups. The cost for one device is for the first year, renewing at annually. For five devices, the initial cost is , with a renewal fee of . For those with two or three devices, Norton 360 Standard is a more cost-effective option, offering additional features like dark web monitoring and a VPN.
Norton 360 Standard
Norton 360 Standard is designed for average users concerned about scams and privacy but not identity theft. In addition to core antivirus and password management, it includes a VPN, scam protection tools, dark web monitoring, and parental controls, along with 2GB of cloud backups. The cost is for the first year and annually thereafter, covering up to three devices.
Norton 360 Deluxe
Norton 360 Deluxe serves parents and users with four to five devices seeking enhanced cybersecurity. It includes all features from Norton 360 Standard, plus parental controls via Norton Family and up to 50GB of cloud backups. The first-year cost is , renewing at 5 annually.
Norton 360 with LifeLock Select Plus
This plan is tailored for those concerned about identity theft, offering privacy monitoring, one-bureau credit monitoring, and up to ,000 in stolen funds reimbursement. It includes 250GB of cloud backups for secure data storage. The cost is 0 for the first year and 0 annually, covering up to 10 devices. This plan is exclusive to U.S. residents due to its identity theft protection features.
Norton antivirus usability: Fast, simple setup for tech newbies and pros alike
Setting up an account with the Norton 360 Deluxe plan was straightforward, allowing me to evaluate usability across three key areas: account navigation, installation/setup for the primary antivirus, and setup for additional tools like the VPN. Most of Norton’s tools were easy to navigate and set up, even for those less technically inclined.
Account navigation
Creating an account with Norton was intuitive, requiring only basic information. Users opting for a LifeLock plan must also provide their address and credit card details for monitoring. The account dashboard prominently displays all Norton services linked to the account, with clear buttons directing users to manage these tools. While upsells for additional services are present, they are not overly intrusive.
Installation and setup
Upon signing up, Norton provided options to install the antivirus on my current device or send download links to others. The installation process was quick, taking just two clicks and about a minute. An expanded setup screen allowed me to toggle various features, all of which were enabled by default, streamlining the process for most users.
Norton also prompts users to run an immediate smart scan, emphasizing the importance of scanning right away. This scan was completed in just two minutes, making the total setup time around five minutes, accessible even for those less familiar with technology.
Norton antivirus performance: Moderate resource usage for rapid scans
During two full days of testing Norton while performing everyday tasks, it operated smoothly in the background without hindering performance. The speed of various scan types was impressive, although deep scans utilized more resources than comparable scans from top competitors.
Background performance
Throughout my testing, Norton maintained a low resource footprint, using only 0% to 5% of CPU power and less than 100MB of memory during routine activities. However, its background performance was less efficient than leading tools like Malwarebytes and Bitdefender, which consistently used under 0.5% of CPU power.
Active scans
Various scans, including smart and full scans, were executed during the testing period. While these scans required more resources (10% to 40% of CPU power), their speed—particularly the 10-minute full scans—offset the higher resource consumption. Smart scans took about two minutes, while full scans were completed in 8 to 10 minutes, significantly faster than those from competitors.
Usability and performance of additional tools: A mixed bag
Norton has developed several complementary cybersecurity tools, including device optimization tools, a safe browser, password manager, scam detector, privacy monitor, parental controls, and a VPN. Most impressed with their straightforward navigation and effective protection protocols, with a few exceptions.
Device optimization tools
Norton’s suite includes a software updater, file cleanup tool, and startup manager, all of which performed efficiently. The performance scan, akin to a smart scan, analyzed my computer for vulnerabilities and viruses, though it led to upselling for additional services.
Safe Browser and safe search
Norton’s Safe Browser offers enhanced security features, including an anti-tracking tool and a malware detection system. While browsing speed and functionality were comparable to popular browsers, the safe search feature was bogged down by excessive sponsored links, detracting from its overall utility.
Password manager
The integrated password manager is user-friendly, allowing for easy navigation and management of stored information. Users can bulk import data and export it if they decide to switch password managers later.
Scam Detector and Norton Genie
Norton’s scam detection tool operates seamlessly in the background, scanning websites and messages for suspicious activity. The Norton Genie AI tool provides detailed analyses of potentially harmful content, helping users identify scams effectively.
Privacy monitor
The privacy monitoring tool scans over 200 data broker sites, providing users with the ability to request data removal. While it returned numerous results, the accuracy of the findings raised some questions.
Norton Family
Norton Family offers robust parental controls, allowing parents to create profiles for their children and set restrictions based on age. The online dashboard provides insights into device usage and blocked content, making it easy to manage children’s online activities.
VPN
Norton’s VPN has seen improvements, including a no-logs policy and enhanced server locations. However, it still lacks advanced privacy features and can significantly slow down internet speeds, making it less competitive compared to standalone VPN services.
Norton antivirus security: Excellent antivirus protection, solid privacy policies
Third-party lab results consistently show that Norton’s antivirus software effectively detects malware and other threats. Its password manager and backup systems utilize top-tier encryption protocols, ensuring user data remains secure.
Antivirus
Norton has maintained a perfect security ranking from AV-Test for the past decade, showcasing its reliability. AV-Comparatives also reported a high online detection rate, further solidifying Norton’s reputation for identifying online threats.
Security for additional tools
The password manager and cloud backup systems employ AES-256 encryption, ensuring data remains protected. Norton’s VPN adheres to a no-logs policy, undergoing regular audits to verify its commitment to user privacy.
Privacy policy and data breaches
Norton’s privacy policies outline data collection practices, emphasizing the removal of personal identifiers wherever possible. While some data is shared with third-party companies for marketing purposes, the overall approach appears to prioritize user privacy.
Norton antivirus customer service
Norton offers a range of customer support options, including a community forum, knowledge base, and 24/7 live chat and phone support. While email support is absent, social media accounts are available for contact.
Knowledge base
Norton’s knowledge base features a search function powered by AI, which can sometimes slow down the process of finding answers. However, the articles are comprehensive and include a mix of text, images, and videos for clarity.
Direct communication
Accessing direct support requires navigating through the knowledge base, but once connected, the response times are generally quick. However, the experience can vary, with some representatives providing stock answers rather than tailored responses.
Norton antivirus value: Good for parents and those on a budget
Norton presents a competitive value proposition, particularly for families and budget-conscious users. Its unique free tools, combined with affordable plans, make it an attractive option for those seeking comprehensive protection.
With pricing starting at for the first year for single-device coverage, Norton’s offerings are appealing, especially when considering the added benefits of parental controls and cloud backups. While it may not match the advanced features of competitors, it remains a solid choice for users prioritizing affordability and specific features.
Norton: Is it right for you?
Norton’s features cater to users seeking active threat protection and families wanting to ensure their children’s online safety. However, for those who prioritize efficiency and advanced cybersecurity tools, alternatives like Bitdefender or Malwarebytes may be more suitable.
In summary, Norton antivirus offers effective protection without significantly slowing down devices, making it a reliable choice for many users. Its user-friendly interface, device optimization tools, and generous device limits enhance its appeal, particularly for families and budget-conscious individuals.
Norton antivirus FAQs
Does Norton 360 slow down my computer?
No, Norton 360 is designed to operate efficiently on modern machines. However, older computers may experience some performance issues.
How effective is Norton 360 against ransomware and malware?
Norton 360 consistently earns high marks in third-party testing, demonstrating strong effectiveness against ransomware and malware.
Can Norton 360 protect multiple devices with one subscription?
Yes, Norton 360 can cover up to 10 devices, depending on the plan selected.
Does Norton 360 work on Mac, Windows, and mobile devices?
Yes, Norton 360 is compatible with both MacOS and Windows, and it also offers mobile apps for Android and iOS.
Norton 360 vs. McAfee: Which is better?
Norton 360 generally uses fewer resources than McAfee, making it a preferable choice for many users. However, McAfee allows for unlimited device protection on most plans, which may be beneficial for larger households.
Is Norton 360 better than Windows Defender?
Yes, Norton 360 offers more flexibility and advanced features compared to Microsoft Defender, including better detection rates in independent tests.
