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Norton Internet Security 2009

Discontinued
Reviewed
March 2009
by ConsumerSearch
Norton Internet Security 2009

Pros
  • Excellent anti-spyware performance
  • Minimal system drag
  • Minimizes security software conflicts
  • Security suites are a good value
Cons
  • Spyware not as good as standalone programs
  • Technical support can be frustrating
Where to Buy
 

While earlier versions were praised for their effectiveness and panned for their effect on computer performance, Norton Internet Security 2009 has slimmed down to the point where system drag is largely a thing of the past. Even better, protection is just as robust, with anti-spyware performance that's nearly as strong as the best standalone products, and better than most. A full security suite is a convenient way to get all the necessary protection in one installation, but experts say you can do just as well or better with standalone antivirus, firewall and anti-spyware programs.

PCMag.com provides the best reporting on the anti-spyware capabilities of Norton Internet Security 2009, including the results of in-house testing. Britain's Which? also tests and reports on the suite's anti-spyware performance, but it doesn't provide any discussion. Anti-spyware performance is barely touched upon in CNET's review, and not at all in a review at About.com. Lots of user feedback about Norton Internet Security 2009 can be found at Amazon.com, though little of it specifically discusses the anti-spyware part of the suite.

Where To Buy
Norton Internet Security 2009 [OLD VERSION]

 (366 reviews)
Buy new: $69.99 $16.89   19 Used & new from $1.95

In Stock. Eligible for FREE Super Saver Shipping
 

Our Sources

1. PCMag.com

PCMag.com has extensive coverage of Norton Internet Security 2009. Neil Rubenking says anti-spyware performance is as good or better than any other product, save Spyware Doctor with AntiVirus 6. Norton Internet Security 2009 had the best performance of any product in defeating keyloggers.

Review: Norton Internet Security 2009, Neil J. Rubenking, Sept. 9, 2008

2. Which? (UK)

Norton Internet Security 2009 earns a Best Buy rating at Which?, the U.K.'s version of ConsumerReports.org. Anti-spyware performance earns 5 out of 5 stars, but is not discussed.

Review: Security Software Reviews, Editors of Which?

3. CNET

Norton Internet Security 2009 gets a mid-length review here. Regarding anti-spyware performance, Vamosi says, "In anti-spyware testing on CNET, Norton Antivirus 2008 scored in the upper half of our top 10."

Review: Norton Internet Security 2009, Robert Vamosi, Sept. 9, 2008

4. Amazon.com

There are lots of user reviews here for Norton Internet Security 2009 -- nearly 120 -- and most users say they are happy to very happy. However, few user reviews address anti-spyware performance specifically.

Review: Norton Internet Security 2009, Contributors to Amazon.com

5. About.com

The review of Norton Internet Security 2009 here focuses on features rather than testing. Anti-spyware performance is not addressed at all. (Note: ConsumerSearch is owned by About.com, but the two don't share an editorial affiliation.)

Review: Norton Internet Security 2009, Mary Landesman

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