Changing Anti-Virus Software

**Omanes Alexandrapolites** · 09-24-2007, 20:21

Hi guys,
I've been using Norton Internet Security 2007 on both of my PCs for a while now - they just happened to come with a short subscription period. Sadly though, there have been some problems. I just happened to stumble along a file of questionable integrity after ten days of having my computer.

Unfortunately, before the virus vault locked it's dodgy contents away, as well as all of the files it managed to infect, it had contaminated several critical Windows System items, which the software's virus vault function refuses to let me do away with.

As I understand it, Norton 360, which I received for usage when the other licence expires, removes all Norton related components. This will include my Internet Security software which is currently holding the infected files.

So, I am wondering what will occur when the old software is wiped. Will the infected files be restored and permitted to roam free, or will I be able to keep full control over the files currently stored in my vault?

All help appreciated, thanks!

**CrossLOPER** · 09-24-2007, 22:10

I think everything will be wiped out, but I am not entirely sure.

Don't use Norton. Ever.

**caravel** · 09-24-2007, 22:12

The virus vault will be uninstalled and the infected files deleted with it - they won't be "set free". Simply uninstall all of the Symantec/Norton software, reboot and install your new Anti Virus program.

**Omanes Alexandrapolites** · 09-25-2007, 08:17

Thanks Cambyses II, much appreciated

**Tratorix** · 09-27-2007, 01:03

Ewwww. Norton. I swore off their products when I would have to leave my computer for like an hour just so it would complete a simple scan. I'm using AVG free edition now, and find it to be a vast improvement.

**Mouzafphaerre** · 09-27-2007, 20:58

.
Good luck with getting rid of Norton.

I've been using Avast! for quite a while now and am pretty content with it. Free for personal use.

Hth

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**Slug For A Butt** · 09-28-2007, 03:20

On my wifes PC I have installed AVG as I much prefer ir to Avast!, it works fine.
I suppose it depends how much risk you put your PC at. My wifes PC is put at much lower risk than mine so it uses a free AV. I pay for the AV on my PC as it more likely to come in to contact with the worst the net can throw at it.

But I wouldn't use Norton, and I certainly wouldn't use McAfee as it is so bloody intrusive.

**Mouzafphaerre** · 09-28-2007, 04:23

.
I'd like to know about the advantages of AVG over Avast! Slug.

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**DukeofSerbia** · 09-30-2007, 07:58

Eset NOD32 is my favorite. Simple, very low usage of resources, and has the best protection.

**Bootsiuv** · 09-30-2007, 08:49

Norton is the biggest system hog around....it comes pre-installed on my rig, and every time I dump my system(usually 1-2 a year), the first thing I do is uninstall that ram beast from my computer.

Personally, I've found McAfee's products to be great, not too intrusive, and they hardly use any system resources at all.