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If you are seeking top-notch antivirus software, Norton 360 stands out as the unequivocal winner. We look at the various reasons for the selection.
Anti-Malware
In the domain of antivirus protection, achieving a 100% protection score is a rare feat, yet Norton consistently accomplishes it. The standout feature is SONAR, a real-time malware protection tool that has proven its effectiveness in independent tests. Examining the past 10 test scores from AV-Test, an independent lab, we found Norton flawlessly detected all 1,200 malware and phishing attempts in our own tests. SONAR distinguishes itself by employing heuristic analysis and machine learning, identifying both known and emerging threats based on unusual behavior rather than relying solely on recognized malicious code.
Firewall
Norton’s Smart Firewall is not just intelligent; it’s ingenious. Monitoring both incoming and outgoing traffic, it intercepts threats before they can wreak havoc. In contrast, Windows’ built-in firewall only scrutinizes incoming traffic. Norton goes a step further by concealing inactive ports, effectively thwarting hacking attempts like port scanning.
VPN
Norton’s unlimited VPN earns our praise for its speed, reliability, and robust security features. Encrypted with AES-256 and utilizing OpenVPN, it surpasses competitors like Bitdefender by not imposing data limits. Norton’s VPN includes features like torrenting support, an auto-connect function, a kill switch, ad tracker blocking, and even a split tunnel.
Password Manager
Managing passwords is seamless with Norton. The auto-fill feature proves accurate and swift, and the biometric support, whether fingerprint or facial recognition, adds an extra layer of convenience and security.
Prices & Packages
Norton Antivirus Plus is priced at €15 (Europe) or $20 (USA), offering antivirus, a firewall, and a password manager for 1 PC or Mac. Norton 360 Standard, costing €30 (Europe) or $40 (USA), adds a VPN and dark web monitoring and protects 1 (Europe) or 3 (USA) devices. Norton 360 Deluxe is priced at €35 (Europe) or $50 (USA), offering additional features like a privacy monitor and parental controls, protecting 5 devices. Norton 360 for Gamers, priced at €35 (Europe) or $45 (USA), includes a gamer optimizer and protects 5 devices. Norton 360 Advanced, priced at €40 in Europe and not sold in the USA, provides identity theft protection and covers 10 devices. Norton 360 Select + LifeLock, priced at $99 in the USA and not sold in Europe, includes LifeLock identity theft protection and covers 10 devices. In some countries, Norton 360 Advanced is known as Norton 360 Premium, essentially the same product without identity theft protection.
Bonus Features
Web Protection: The Safe Web extension ensures malicious websites are effectively blocked.
Cloud Backup: Safely store essential files with secure cloud backup.
Parental Controls: Keep a close eye on your kids’ online activities.
Privacy Monitor: Track down who has access to your personal information.
Webcam Protection: Prevent unauthorized access to your webcam.
Dark Web Monitoring: Stay informed if your information ends up in questionable places.
LifeLock Identity Theft Protection: Exclusive to the U.S., this feature is highly effective in identifying and resolving identity theft.
A Final Note: Is Norton the Best Antivirus Software of 2024?
In a single word, yes. Norton provides an all-encompassing solution that extends beyond mere malware detection; it is a comprehensive security suite safeguarding your devices, privacy, and identity. With a generous 60-day return policy, you can experience Norton 360 without financial risk.
There you have it. Norton isn’t just good; it’s the best we’ve tested.