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    symantec or avast

    Discussion in 'Security and Anti-Virus Software' started by alyssadiane, Jun 18, 2010.

  1. alyssadiane

    alyssadiane Newbie

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    I just got a new netbook, the Acer AO532h. It runs on Win XP and currently has 1gb ram, but I've ordered a 2gb upgrade that should be here soon.

    I want to download a very lightweight free antivirus system that doesn't take up a lot of energy. I don't do file sharing or anything risky, I just need something basic that I don't have to mess with.

    On my laptop, I've been using Symantec for free through my university. It has been fine so far, no problems and no hassle, I just don't know if it will slow my netbook down. My school offers Symantec 11.0.5 32bit and 64bit for Windows, not sure what the difference is between the two.

    I've also heard some really good things about Avast but I've never used it. What's recommended?
     
    alyssadiane, Jun 18, 2010
    #1
  2. Padmé

    Padmé NBR Super Pink Princess

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    I would try out MSE first. If you decide you don't like that one, then go ahead and try Avast.
     
    Padmé, Jun 19, 2010
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  3. MrDJ

    MrDJ Notebook Nobel Laureate

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    symantec/norton used to be very power hungry but ive heard the latest version is meant to be more friendly. im now running avast pro which seems to do the job as good but i havnt had any viruses yet so cant really tell.
     
    MrDJ, Jun 19, 2010
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  4. lineS of flight

    lineS of flight Notebook Virtuoso

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    +1 for MSE...very lightweight and quite effective as per the latest stats.
     
    lineS of flight, Jun 19, 2010
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  5. ItzWarty

    ItzWarty Notebook Enthusiast

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    Didn't the avast team work with microsoft to make the two programs [Avast 5 and MSE] not conflict?
    ---
    On topic, i'm all for avast :D
     
    ItzWarty, Jun 19, 2010
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  6. Deks

    Deks Notebook Prophet

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    I suggest you go with one of the 3 free antivirus options (MSE, Avast, Avira).
    I personally use MSE since it has the highest detection rate of those free products, it's just as light and doesn't bog down the system (plus it's specifically designed to integrate into Windows).

    Symantec drastically optimized their antivirus ever since 2009 version.
    Norton Internet Security 2010 is the best of the paid solutions when it comes to being lightweight and with high detection rates.

    But personally, I don't see the point in paying for a product when there are free programs that get the job done just as good and are not slowing down the system.
    :)
     
    Deks, Jun 20, 2010
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