I have Norton AV 2002 with Windows XP. My subscription expires soon, and I am trying to decide if I should update to 2004. I have had very little problem with 2002, my virus defs are up to date, and all seems to be working fine. However, with viruses around every corner and in every nook and cranny, I would like to feel as secure as possible with my AV software. Also, if I update to 2004, is it better to purchase the software package or to download from Symantec's site? Thanks very much.

no

no....to which part, please? This is an important question to me, and I thought it was clear and uncomplicated. If it is not appropriate to this forum, please remove it. Thank you.

It would be worth your while to go to a free antivirus program like AVG. I've been using norton products since the beginning. They do work great. But the NEW Symantec approach is to charge you for the program and then charge you $30 every time you need support. My NAV 2002 is about to expire too; so I've been thinking hard about this one. If you have more than one computer, you will need to buy a copy for each one. Symantec now requires a registered license for each computer - just like Microsoft. This adds up to $$$$$$. So, if you are going to pay for the multiple copies and not get support unless you pay for it too, why not jump ship?

I have installed about 20 copies of the free AVG Antivirus program. It works great and the updates are just one click away. Try it.
http://www.grisoft.com/us/us_dwnl_free.php

I'm about to remove Norton Firewall too. I'm going to use the free version of Zonealarm. I've had good results with this on my wife and son's computers.

Good Luck, ZapperJohn[/url]

Thanks, zapperjohn! I've run the free AVG before, just as a backup to Norton and it seemed to work very well. I agree that Norton's "customer service" sure leaves a lot to be desired...lol. I really wanted some other opinions about what I should do and, like you, have given this a lot of thought. Just can't be too security conscious nowadays! I only have one computer, but $30 is a pretty hefty sum...that would almost fill my car's gas tank half full...LOL!

Thank you very much for taking the time to answer my question...I will definitely give the AVG serious consideration. Take care & God bless.

Zone Alarm and Nod32 would be the best combination........

I said no for the same reasons zapperjohn did plus one more......go to the front page here and read the symantec alert