Do I need Norton?

oxters

I have BT broadband which comes with some protective stuff. I previously subscribed to Norton for anti-virus and it is due again for renewal. Does anybody know if I need this or am I sufficiently protected by btinternet.com?

Thanks for any replies

danmanchester

You don't "need" Norton in the sense that there are excellent alternative anti virus programs available. You DO NEED anti virus protection!

This thread has details of many excellent free software you can download and use instead of paying for Norton.

Aldridge_Andy

If the BT "Protective Stuff" doesn't include the basics such as Anti-Virus, and Anti-Spyware/Malware then you really need to maintain at least this level of protection.

In addition if your modem/router doesn't at least include a hardware firewall, then you ideally should have a Software firewall such as Zone Alarm installed as well. A software firewall in addition to a hardware firewall isn't a bad idea either.

Windows XP SP2 has a uni directional Software Firewall, Windows Defender is free and a decent Anti-Spyware/Malware defence. AVG and Avast are good, free Anti-Virus Applications. Zone Alarm a great free firewall too. I'm sure other users have their own preference too, but a few security precations can save you loads of trouble should something nasty come your way!

BillScarab

You don't need Norton, just install a free AV program such as AVG or Avast. Alternatively if you want the best AV protection buy NOD32, it's better than Norton and cheaper I believe. Norton can be a pain to remove but there is a tool to totally remove it. if you search in this forum you'll find a link to it.

oxters

Wow that was quick. Ta very much for the advice

sicker

oxters, let me just reiterate Billscarabs post. Norton can cause grief if not removed completely and correctly.

John

oxters

Ta sicker. Will do

ormus

norton would be the very last thing id ever put on my PC.

hell freezing over, rings a bell.

skiddy2k

Norton 2007 is a good AntiVirus believe it or not... (worked on my PC at least) and far better than previous versions... depends on what you want at the end of the day... there are free solutions out there which provide good protection such as Antivir, AVS - Active Virus Shield and Avast!

Personal preffrence at the end of the day, i've chosen to use a paid-for AntiVirus, but many people cant understand why they should pay for a antivirus seeing as they can get good antiviruses for free (which makes sence)

ormus

its not just the paying. some free ones are better than norton.
some are much much better.

PeteHerts

From what i hear Norton makes viruses to sell their product!