Is norton antivus is safe?

Is Norton Antivirus Software Safe?

Every tier of Norton's antivirus software offers a comprehensive set of cybersecurity features, including protections against malware – malicious software such as spyware, used to secretly gather data about you; viruses, which is code inserted into another program to perform specific malicious actions; and ransomware, which allows hackers to lock your device until you pay a ransom. Norton antivirus software also includes a firewall that helps keep hackers from surreptitiously accessing your device, webcam protection that keeps hackers from seeing you, and dark web monitoring that keeps your personal data from becoming available on a part of the “invisible” internet that requires specific software to access.


Norton antivirus packages also include features not often found packaged with antivirus software, such as a VPN that disguises your online activities, a password manager, and 10 to 500 GB of cloud storage depending on the specific plan you subscribe to.


Acer PCs include the unique pre-installed Norton Security Ultra as a 30-day trial. However, this version of Norton doesn't include the LifeLock insurance features of the standard NortonLifeLock packages. To subscribe to one of the standard NortonLifeLock packages, your best bet is to install a fresh version of Windows 10 on your Acer computer. This will clear out the limited pre-installed version of Norton and any "bloatware," which consists of often unnecessary and potentially dangerous Windows 10 add-ons that companies pay computer makers to preinstall. To install a clean, bloatware-free version of Windows 10 on any PC, go to Start > Settings > Update & Security > Recovery > More Recovery Options ("Learn how to start fresh with a clean installation of Windows").


How Long Does Norton Antivirus Software Last?

Like all antivirus software providers, Norton constantly checks for new threats. The company says it normally updates its virus definitions three times a day, more often when it discovers new and emerging threats it needs to address. Any updates are sent to subscribers completely in the background so they can continue using their computers for something else. In addition, users can conduct their own manual update checks.


How Do I Disable Norton Antivirus Software?

Norton security can be disabled for a specified duration by this three-step process:


  1. In the Notification area on the taskbar, right-click the Norton icon, then click "Disable Auto-Protect."

  2. In the "Security Request" window, in the "Select the duration" drop-down list, select the duration for which you want to turn off Norton.

  3. Click "OK."

  4. To uninstall Norton Security Ultra, it's best to reinstall Windows 10. Navigate to Start > Settings > Update & Security > Recovery > More Recovery Options ("Learn how to start fresh with a clean installation of Windows").


How Do I Uninstall Norton Antivirus Software?

Just as with any type of computer software, NortonLifeLock antivirus software can be uninstalled using the Windows 10 Add or Remove function, found in the Windows Control Panel. Just make sure you have unsubscribed from the service in case renewals are automatic.


Best Antivirus Software of 2021

If Norton isn't for you, there are other options. Here's our list of the Best Antivirus Software for Windows 2021.


#1 Bitdefender

#2 Kaspersky

#3 Webroot

#3 Norton

#5 Trend Micro

#6 McAfee

#6 ESET

#8 Avast

#9 AVG Technologies

#9 Sophos


If you have a Mac, check out our Best Antivirus Software for Mac 2021.


#1 Intego

#2 Bitdefender

#3 ESET

#3 Norton

#5 Kaspersky

#6 Avast

#7 McAfee

#7 Sophos

#9 Trend Micro


Learn More

Still looking for more information about antivirus software or trying to find the best antivirus software for you? Explore the directory below to learn more.


  1. Best Antivirus Software of 2021

  2. Best Antivirus Software for Mac 2021

  3. Cheapest Antivirus Software 2021

  4. Cheapest Antivirus Software for Mac 2021

  5. How to Buy Antivirus Software

  6. How Does Antivirus Software Work?

  7. McAfee vs. Norton

  8. Bitdefender vs. Kaspersky

  9. Microsoft Defender vs. McAfee

  10. McAfee vs. Trend Micro

  11. Avast vs. AVG

How U.S. News Evaluated Antivirus Software

We explain what matters most to consumers, experts, and professional reviewers when it comes to antivirus software. Then we provide an unbiased evaluation of antivirus software available at the time of review. Our goal is to empower consumers with the information and tools they need to make informed decisions. More information about our 360 Reviews methodology for evaluating antivirus software companies is here.