Norton Review: Best Antivirus Software in 2025

Can one antivirus protect all your devices and keep them running well? This review looks at Norton’s claim to be the top antivirus software today.

Norton antivirus has grown beyond just fighting viruses. Its Norton 360 suite now includes VPN, firewall, and zero-day exploit prevention. This review shows how Norton gets almost perfect detection rates without slowing down your devices.

The review of Norton Lifelock involves real-world tests on various platforms and threats. Norton offers flexible protection with different subscription plans. Each plan comes with a 14-day free trial and a 60-day money-back guarantee. Whether you need basic protection or full digital security, Norton 360 meets your needs.

Key Takeaways

• Norton maintains near-perfect malware detection rates across all major testing platforms
• Cross-platform compatibility ensures seamless protection for Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android devices
• Norton 360 combines antivirus, VPN, firewall, and ransomware protection in one package
• Zero-day exploit protection stops emerging threats before they damage your system
• 60-day money-back guarantee allows risk-free testing of all features
• Multiple subscription tiers match different security needs and budgets

Norton Review: A Detailed Look at Features and Performance

Norton is a top choice for security, with strong norton malware protection on many platforms. It has a wide range of features to fight today’s digital threats. Its defense includes real-time scanning, behavior analysis, and cloud-based smarts for top-notch security.

Real-Time Malware Protection and Detection Rates

Norton’s real-time protection engine is very good at catching malware. In tests, it almost always found and blocked threats. It stops dangers fast, like zero-day exploits and new ransomware.

Tests show Norton’s security is strong:

• Blocks 99.9% of known malware samples
• Detects 11 out of 12 advanced ransomware strains
• Stops harmful downloads automatically
• Scans email attachments right away

System Performance Impact and Resource Usage

Norton doesn’t slow down your computer much. It uses less resources than many others. Background scans are quick, and full system scans are faster than before.

Cross-Platform Compatibility Across Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS

Norton works well on all major operating systems. Each one gets special security features for its own risks. You can protect up to 10 devices with one subscription, great for families and small businesses. The interface is easy to use on any device.

Norton 360 Security Suite Features

The Norton 360 security suite offers top-notch protection. It combines antivirus with tools for digital privacy and data safety. These features work together to defend against cyber threats.

Smart Firewall and Network Protection

Norton’s firewall keeps your network safe. It blocks unauthorized access and stops exploit attacks. Tests show it blocks most known exploits before they hit vulnerable apps.

Password Manager Integration

The Norton password manager is a key part of the suite. It stores login details, creates strong passwords, and fills forms. You can access your passwords easily through browser extensions and mobile apps.

Unlimited VPN Service Quality

Norton Secure VPN keeps your browsing safe on public Wi-Fi. It hides your IP address and protects your privacy. Even basic plans offer unlimited data, and speeds are good for streaming and browsing.

Cloud Backup Storage Options

Cloud backup is only in Norton 360’s top plans. You get 10GB to 100GB of storage, depending on your plan. It backs up your files, photos, and documents from ransomware and hardware failures. Real-time synchronization keeps your data up to date on all devices.

Norton Antivirus Performance in Independent Lab Tests

Independent labs are key in testing antivirus software. Norton stands out with top scores from respected labs. It scores an impressive 9.8 out of 10 points from three major labs.

The AV-TEST Institute is a top cybersecurity organization. Norton scores nearly perfect in malware detection on Windows, macOS, and Android. This shows it protects well against millions of malware samples tested each month.

Norton does more than just fight viruses. It blocks 100% of malware-hosting URLs, stopping users from visiting dangerous sites. It also excels in phishing protection, catching 99% of threats while others catch only 95%.

These tests prove Norton is a top choice for antivirus software. Users can trust it to keep their devices safe.

Norton Pricing Plans and Subscription Options

Norton offers many norton subscription plans to fit different needs and budgets. Each plan gives top-notch protection with various features and device limits. Knowing about norton pricing plans helps users pick the right protection for their needs.

Norton AntiVirus Plus Basic Plan

The Norton AntiVirus Plus is the basic option in norton security pricing. It starts at $29.99 for the first year and covers one PC or Mac. It includes real-time threat protection, smart firewall, password manager, and 2GB of cloud backup. After the first year, it costs $59.99 annually.

Norton 360 Deluxe Best Value Package

Norton 360 Deluxe is the best value for families. It costs $49.99 for the first year and protects up to five devices. It includes 50GB of cloud backup, parental controls, and unlimited VPN service. The renewal price is $109.99 per year.

Norton 360 Premium and Advanced Tiers

Norton 360 Premium protects 10 devices at $59.99 for the first year. It includes 75GB of cloud backup and all features from lower tiers. The standard renewal rate is $139.99 annually.

Norton 360 with LifeLock Identity Protection

The nortonlifelock pricing starts at $99.99 for the first year with Select Plus coverage. It protects 10 devices and adds identity theft protection, credit monitoring, and up to $1 million in reimbursement coverage. Annual renewal costs $249.99.

All norton subscription plans come with a 60-day money-back guarantee and 24/7 customer support. Norton offers a 14-day free trial to test features before buying. When comparing norton prices, look at both the introductory and renewal rates to understand the total cost.

Norton’s Advanced Security Features

Norton 360 antivirus goes beyond basic virus protection. It tackles complex digital threats with specialized features. These features create strong defenses against cyberattacks.

Dark Web Monitoring Capabilities

Dark web monitoring looks for stolen data in hidden internet places. Norton checks thousands of dark web sites for your personal info. If it finds your data, it alerts you right away.

This early warning lets you act fast to prevent identity theft.

Parental Controls and Family Protection

Norton Family helps parents control their kids’ online use. It filters websites, manages screen time, and tracks locations. Parents get reports on their kids’ online activities.

It blocks bad content but lets educational sites through.

PC SafeCam Webcam Protection

PC SafeCam stops unauthorized webcam access. It warns you if an app tries to use your camera. You must agree before it can access your webcam.

This stops spyware and malicious programs from spying on you.

Ransomware Protection and Data Recovery

Ransomware protection catches encryption attempts on your files. Norton stopped 11 out of 12 ransomware samples in tests. It shows Norton’s strong defense.

The Ransomware Remediation feature can restore files after an attack. It helps protect your data from cybercriminals.

Norton VPN Service Analysis

Norton VPN service is part of Norton 360 packages. It offers encrypted connections and privacy protection. The performance of Norton VPN varies with the subscription tier.

Basic Norton subscriptions have Norton Secure VPN with a 200MB daily bandwidth cap. This cap limits streaming, large downloads, and extended browsing. Users needing more should upgrade to premium packages or buy a standalone VPN.

The Norton VPN features are solid, despite some limits. It uses *AES-256 encryption*, masks IP addresses, and protects on public Wi-Fi. Norton VPN reliability is high, with consistent speeds on supported platforms.

Basic tier users can’t choose server locations. The system connects to the nearest server, limiting access to geo-restricted content. Premium subscribers get access to 30 countries with unlimited bandwidth.

Norton VPN works well with other Norton security features. Together, they offer strong protection against cyber threats. This includes defense against zero-day exploits and man-in-the-middle attacks.

For those who value privacy, upgrading to full Norton VPN is a good choice. The premium version removes bandwidth limits and allows server selection. This makes it a strong VPN solution.

Identity Theft Protection with Norton LifeLock

Norton and LifeLock team up to offer top-notch antivirus and identity theft protection. This combo shields your devices and personal info. It watches your financial accounts, checks your credit reports, and warns you of identity threats early.

Credit Monitoring Services

LifeLock’s credit monitoring keeps an eye on all three major credit bureaus. It alerts you right away if someone opens a new account in your name or if there’s suspicious activity on your reports. Advanced monitoring features also scan the dark web and watch your investment accounts for unauthorized access.

Identity Restoration Support

If your identity gets stolen, LifeLock’s got your back. Their experts handle everything from start to finish. They talk to creditors, file police reports, and work with government agencies to fix your identity. This saves you a lot of time and ensures all the right paperwork is done.

Insurance Coverage and Reimbursement

Norton’s identity theft protection also offers financial help through insurance. The benefits depend on the plan you choose:

The cost of a LifeLock subscription varies based on the features you get. Annual prices start at $89.99 for basic coverage. Norton’s suite also includes PC SafeCam and encrypted cloud backup, along with LifeLock’s identity protection.

Norton Customer Support Experience

Norton customer support offers many ways to get help with their antivirus software. The norton customer service team is available 24/7. They provide phone support and live chat for all subscribers.

Users can find help through phone and live chat. This makes it easy to get assistance whenever needed.

The nortonlifelock customer support team also has an online knowledge base. It helps users solve common problems on their own. The team helps with installation, troubleshooting, and managing subscriptions on different platforms.

But, user feedback on norton customer satisfaction is mixed. Some users face communication issues and struggle to get their problems solved. This has led some to look for other antivirus options.

The lifelock customer service team deals with identity protection separately. While nortonlifelock customer service tries to help fully, the norton customer service experience varies. Some users appreciate the technical help, while others are unhappy with the response time and communication.

Norton vs McAfee: Direct Comparison

When deciding between Norton vs McAfee, it’s important to know their differences. Both are among the top antivirus software choices for 2025. They each offer unique ways to protect your digital world.

Malware Detection Effectiveness

Both Norton and McAfee are top-notch at catching malware. Norton stops 100% of zero-day threats without false alarms. McAfee also catches most threats but might flag some safe software as threats.

Norton scans faster than McAfee. It can check one million files in just 20 minutes. McAfee takes longer, over an hour.

Feature Set Differences

The cybersecurity software comparison shows each has its own strengths:

• Norton has Game Optimizer for better gaming
• McAfee offers VPN in 45+ countries, Norton in 25+
• Both have advanced firewalls and parental controls
• Norton offers a 60-day money-back guarantee, McAfee 30 days

Pricing and Value Analysis

Norton AntiVirus Plus starts at $29.99 for one device. McAfee Premium Family costs $69.99 for unlimited devices. For families with many devices, Norton might be the better deal.

Both offer real-time protection, password managers, and VPN services. Norton is often seen as the better value among the best cybersecurity solutions.

Norton Security Effectiveness Against Modern Threats

The digital world is always changing, and we need strong protection. Norton stands out with its multi-layered defense. It uses advanced detection and real-time response to keep us safe.

The suite fights threats with smart algorithms and updates. This helps it stay ahead of new dangers.

Zero-Day Threat Protection

Zero-day exploits are a big risk because they’re new and unknown. Norton uses behavioral analysis and machine learning to catch them early. It looks at how files and networks act to find odd patterns.

Norton is always on the lookout for trouble. It watches system activities and flags anything unusual. This way, Norton can stop threats even if it doesn’t know them yet.

Phishing and Email Protection

Email is a common way for hackers to attack. Norton Internet Security blocked 99% of phishing attempts in tests. It also protects web browsers by checking links and sites for danger.

Norton checks websites in real-time. It looks at reputation, SSL certificates, and content. If a site looks suspicious, Norton warns users before they can get hurt.

Exploit Prevention Technology

Norton’s Network Threat Prevention blocked over 50% of exploit attempts in tests. It watches network traffic and spots exploitation techniques. This keeps software vulnerabilities safe.

The system guards against:

• Buffer overflow attacks
• Code injection attempts
• Privilege escalation exploits
• Remote code execution threats

Norton Installation and User Interface

The norton installation process is incredibly simple. It works on Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS devices. You can get it up and running in just minutes. The setup wizard is easy to follow, without any confusing terms.

The norton user interface is both functional and easy to use. It shows important info like protection status and scan results right away. You can easily switch between devices because the interface stays the same.

Norton’s features are easy to understand, thanks to helpful tooltips. The software scans in the background without slowing down your system. The clean, modern design reflects years of refinement in symantec security software development, resulting in an interface that feels both powerful and approachable.

Norton Mobile App Features and Performance

The Norton mobile app offers top-notch protection for smartphones and tablets. It works well on both Android and iOS. Users can easily manage their device’s security from the NortonLifeLock app. This keeps their devices safe from mobile threats and ensures smooth performance.

Android Security Features

Norton Android security offers strong protection for Android devices. It scans apps before you install them to catch harmful software. App Advisor checks apps for privacy risks, like accessing your contacts or location without need.

The app also has tools to boost your device’s speed. It clears cache and manages background apps. Plus, it watches for dangerous websites in real-time, blocking phishing and fraud.

iOS Protection Capabilities

Norton iOS protection keeps Apple devices safe with special security tools. It blocks harmful websites and alerts you to unsecured Wi-Fi networks. This stops data theft on public networks.

The app works well with Apple’s security, adding extra protection without slowing down your device. It also watches for data breaches and alerts you to any issues.

Remote Device Management

Device security management lets you protect your mobile even when you’re not with it. The remote dashboard tracks your device’s location. You can lock it with a message for honest finders.

Norton System Optimization Tools

The norton system optimization tools do more than just protect against viruses. They offer a range of tools to boost your computer’s performance. These features are part of the nortonlifelock security suite, combining security and system care.

Norton’s tools help your device run better. The startup manager lets you choose what programs start when you turn on your computer. This makes your computer start up faster.

The disk optimization tools in the norton cybersecurity suite keep your system fast. They find and remove temporary files and duplicates. Tests show these tools can free up a lot of space, with some users gaining over 800MB.

For full device optimization, you need a Norton Utilities subscription. This premium service includes:

• Real-time hardware optimization for CPU and RAM
• Advanced disk defragmentation
• Application acceleration technology
• System privacy protection
• Automated background maintenance

These tools work well with Norton’s security features. They make a complete system for protecting and improving your device’s performance.

Norton Privacy Protection Features

Norton offers top-notch norton privacy protection with several layers of security. These layers protect your personal info online. The suite includes online privacy tools that stop unauthorized data collection and keep your identity safe.

These privacy protection features help you control your digital footprint. You can browse, shop, and do online activities safely.

Privacy Monitor for Data Broker Removal

Norton’s Privacy Monitor is a key tool in the nortonlifelock features lineup. It scans data broker sites where your info might be shared without your okay. The Privacy Monitor Assistant makes it easier by sending removal requests to 19 big data broker sites.

This system checks for removed info every quarter. It keeps your data private. You get updates on removals and any new finds.

AntiTrack Browser Protection

Norton’s AntiTrack stops websites from making detailed profiles of your browsing. It blocks tracking cookies and other ways advertisers follow you online. This works well with all popular browsers without slowing you down.

Safe Web Browser Extension

Norton safe web keeps you safe from bad websites and phishing. It shows safety ratings for search results and blocks harmful sites. These norton internet security features check millions of sites daily for threats.

Conclusion

Norton is a top choice for antivirus software. This review shows it has nearly 100% malware detection on all major platforms. It offers more than just antivirus, like VPN, identity theft protection, and cloud backup.

The 60-day money-back guarantee lets you try it risk-free. This makes it a great option for those looking for reliable security.

Norton 360 packages are the best value for most users. They include antivirus, password management, unlimited VPN, and dark web monitoring. It’s great at stopping zero-day threats and ransomware.

NortonLifeLock goes beyond basic security. It offers credit monitoring and identity restoration in higher plans. This adds an extra layer of protection.

NortonLifeLock pricing starts low but goes up after the first year. It’s important to consider these costs when choosing a plan. Norton 360 Deluxe covers up to five devices and includes 50GB of cloud backup for a good price.

Premium tiers offer more storage and device licenses. Norton’s reliable protection, useful extras, and support for all major platforms make it a solid choice for anyone looking for digital security.