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- Security suite with antivirus software Norton Internet Security 2009 *Est. $45
- Most popular antivirus software Norton AntiVirus 2009 *Est. $20
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- Norton AntiVirus 10.1 prevents Macintosh malware and prevents Macintosh users from passing on malware to PC users via e-mail. The program is easy to use, but some question whether Mac users even need antivirus software.
- Many experts say Norton AntiVirus 10.1 includes too much bloatware (extra programs and 'features' users may or may not want). Customers frequently have installation problems. System drag is a big issue for Norton AntiVirus users, and they are unhappy with Norton support options and service.
The debate in the Macintosh community is less about which is the best Macintosh antivirus program than whether a Macintosh antivirus program is necessary. Documentation on both sides is weak and emotional. The best review sources rationally point out that using an antivirus program is socially responsible computing. Even if your computer doesn't need protection, you need software to prevent the spread of viruses. Reviews indicate Intego VirusBarrier X4 (*est. $55) is faster and less invasive, if not also better than Norton AntiVirus 10.1 for Mac.
Among the reviews we read for Norton AntiVirus 10.1, Macworld has the best coverage. The antivirus product is formally tested and directly compared with other Mac antivirus applications. The Macosxhints Forums and Tech-Edge E-zine have single-product reviews with different unique perspectives. All are worth reading. We found some good user reviews at Amazon.com for Norton AntiVirus for Mac.
Our Sources
1. Macworld
In this article, Rob Griffiths directly compares Norton AntiVirus 10.0 with Intego VirusBarrier X4 and a free program. He does not evaluate the ability of each program to prevent malware, but adequately covers other usage issues.
Review: Antiviral Armor: Mac antivirus software assessed, Rob Griffiths, June 20, 2006
2. Amazon.com
At press time, Norton AntiVirus has a couple dozen user reviews. Customers love it, or hate it to the degree that half give it the lowest possible rating. Customer support, system drag, and installation problems are mentioned. Several users recommend alternatives they've used.
Review: Norton AntiVirus Mac 10.0 (Mac) Review, Contributors to Amazon.com
This single-product review pre-dates the comparative review (above). It evaluates the program in a little more detail.
Review: Norton AntiVirus 10.1: Industry-standard app gets the job done quickly and easily, Rob Griffiths, May 10, 2006
Norm Nager objectively reviews Norton AntiVirus 10 for the users of this forum. He advocates usage of the antivirus program to protect the global computing community. A discussion by forum members follows.
Review: Review: Norton AntiVirus 10 for Tiger, Norm Nager, June 11, 2005
Keith Benicek stridently argues that Apple and the mainstream Macintosh media perpetuate a myth that Macintosh systems aren't at risk of viruses. This rave review is comprehensive and nicely documented with screen shots, but it is not comparative and effectiveness is not formally tested.
Review: Norton AntiVirus 10 for Mac by Symantec, the Perfection Continues, Keith Benicek, Aug. 5, 2005
