[Clu]

Hi,. I'm thinking of download one of the antivirus software that your forum mentioned. The computer that I bought has an old Norton antivirus software 2005. My question is if I uninstall Norton to install the new virus software want that leave my computer in danger of getting viruses? I know that the Norton software is outdate, but it does seem to delete some viruses..
Right now I'm using my acer notebook, but I really want to use my desktop computer again.

[evilfantasy]

If Norton is outdated then get rid of it. The free anti-viruses I will list are just as good or better then any paid version.

First properly remove Norton.

To completely remove Norton/Symantec go to add remove programs and uninstall anything with Norton, Symantec or Live Update in the name.

Download the Norton Removal Tool (SymNRT) to your desktop.

Once downloaded please close ALL open browsers, also save any work because this may require a restart.

* Go to your desktop and double click on the 'Norton_Removal_Tool' and then click Setup.
* Once open Click Next
* Accept the license agreement and click Next
* Type in the letters/numbers that you see into the text box then click Next.
* Then click Next and the tool will start running.
* Once finished restart the PC.
* Delete the 'Norton_Removal_Tool' from your desktop.

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Remember to only install one antivirus!

1) Avast! Home Edition
2) AVG Free Edition
3) Avira AntiVir Personal
4) Microsoft Security Essentials for Windows Vista\Windows 7 // MSE 64 bit Download
4-a) Microsoft Security Essentials for Windows XP
5) Comodo Antivirus (Uncheck during installation "Install Comodo HopSurf..", Ask.com search provider" and "Make Comodo HopSurf.com Search my homepage" if you choose this one)
6) PC Tools AntiVirus Free Edition

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Remember only install ONE firewall

1) Online Armor
2) Agnitum Outpost
3) PC Tools Firewall Plus
4) Comodo Personal Firewall (Uncheck during installation "Install Comodo HopSurf..", Ask.com search provider" and "Make Comodo HopSurf.com Search my homepage"

If you are using the built-in Windows XP firewall, it is not recommended as it does not block outgoing connections. This means that any malware on your computer is free to "phone home" for more instructions. Simply put, Windows XP contains a mediocre firewall. This firewall is NO replacement for a dedicated software solution. Remember to use only one firewall at the same time.

[Hybr!d]

Viruses have to be installed by you, so for example, going to a dodgy site and clicking a link or by downloading a virus via P2P or torrents. So, while you computer is unprotected for this small amount of time be careful what sites you visit and what you download.

[Hybr!d]

It's also worth noting that most AV software will not stop you getting viruses, it is just a tool to alert you and remove them when you do get them. So the only real security is your savvy mind, if you are careful what you click you will be fine in most cases. AV or no AV.

[evilfantasy]

True. I used a very slow Windows 98 for a long time with no security whatsoever and didn't get it infected. Just think before you click.

[Clu]

Thanks everyone! I appreciate all the helpful advice.

[Clu]

Ok, I uninstalled everything with Norton accept something call Live Reg (Symantec Corporation.) It wouldn't let me. A message popped up saying Symantec LiveReg cannot be removed at this time because the following application required this component, Norton personal firewall, but I did remove it, What do I do now? Should I go ahead an add the Norton Removal tool?

[evilfantasy]

Yes the Norton Removal Tool should take out the rest of it.

[Clu]

One more question. I selected the turn off button on windows firewall. Do I turn off
window autmatic updates also?

[evilfantasy]

It's best to leave them on.

[Clu]

Thank you! Thank you!