Norton Antivirus 2011 vs. Norton Internet Security 2011

Attribute	Norton Antivirus 2011	Norton Internet Security 2011
Price	$$	$$$
Antivirus Protection	Yes	Yes
Firewall	No	Yes
Identity Protection	No	Yes
Parental Controls	No	Yes
Spam Protection	No	Yes
Phishing Protection	No	Yes
Online Backup	No	Yes
System Performance	Good	Excellent

Introduction

Norton Antivirus 2011 and Norton Internet Security 2011 are two popular security software products developed by Symantec Corporation. While both products aim to protect your computer from various online threats, they have distinct features and functionalities that cater to different user needs. In this article, we will compare the attributes of Norton Antivirus 2011 and Norton Internet Security 2011 to help you make an informed decision about which product suits your requirements.

Virus Protection

Both Norton Antivirus 2011 and Norton Internet Security 2011 offer robust virus protection capabilities. They utilize advanced scanning algorithms and real-time threat detection to identify and eliminate viruses, malware, and other malicious software from your system. Norton Antivirus 2011 focuses primarily on virus protection, providing essential features such as on-demand scanning, automatic updates, and quarantine functionality. On the other hand, Norton Internet Security 2011 not only includes virus protection but also offers additional layers of security, such as firewall protection, to safeguard your computer from network-based threats.

Firewall Protection

Norton Internet Security 2011 takes the lead when it comes to firewall protection. Its built-in firewall monitors incoming and outgoing network traffic, blocking unauthorized access and preventing potential attacks. The firewall also helps in preventing malicious software from connecting to the internet, thus reducing the risk of data breaches and unauthorized data transfers. Norton Antivirus 2011, on the other hand, lacks a dedicated firewall feature, making it more suitable for users who already have a reliable firewall solution in place or prefer a lightweight antivirus solution without additional security layers.

Identity Protection

Identity theft is a growing concern in today's digital world. Norton Internet Security 2011 offers comprehensive identity protection features to safeguard your personal information. It includes anti-phishing technology that detects and blocks fraudulent websites attempting to steal your sensitive data, such as login credentials and credit card information. Additionally, Norton Internet Security 2011 provides a secure browsing feature that encrypts your internet traffic, ensuring your online activities remain private and protected. Norton Antivirus 2011, while focused on virus protection, does not offer the same level of identity protection as its counterpart.

Parental Controls

For users with children, parental control features are essential to ensure a safe online experience. Norton Internet Security 2011 includes robust parental controls that allow you to monitor and restrict your child's internet usage. You can set time limits, block inappropriate websites, and even track your child's online activities. These features provide peace of mind for parents who want to protect their children from accessing harmful content or falling victim to online predators. Norton Antivirus 2011, being primarily an antivirus solution, does not offer parental control functionalities.

Performance Impact

When it comes to the performance impact on your computer, both Norton Antivirus 2011 and Norton Internet Security 2011 are designed to minimize resource usage and provide efficient protection. However, Norton Antivirus 2011, being a standalone antivirus solution, generally has a smaller footprint and consumes fewer system resources compared to Norton Internet Security 2011, which includes additional security features like firewall and identity protection. If you have a lower-end system or prioritize system performance, Norton Antivirus 2011 might be a better choice for you.

User Interface

The user interface of Norton Antivirus 2011 and Norton Internet Security 2011 is quite similar, providing a familiar experience for users. Both products feature a clean and intuitive interface, making it easy to navigate and access various settings and features. The main difference lies in the additional options and settings available in Norton Internet Security 2011, which cater to the extra security functionalities it offers. However, for users who prefer a simpler interface without the need for advanced security features, Norton Antivirus 2011 provides a more streamlined experience.

Price and Licensing

Price and licensing options are important factors to consider when choosing between Norton Antivirus 2011 and Norton Internet Security 2011. Norton Antivirus 2011 is typically priced lower than Norton Internet Security 2011, as it offers a more basic set of features. However, it is important to note that pricing may vary depending on the region and any ongoing promotions. Both products are available as annual subscriptions, allowing you to receive regular updates and support from Symantec. It is recommended to check the official Symantec website or authorized resellers for the most up-to-date pricing information.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Norton Antivirus 2011 and Norton Internet Security 2011 are two reliable security software products offered by Symantec Corporation. While Norton Antivirus 2011 focuses primarily on virus protection, Norton Internet Security 2011 provides additional security layers such as firewall protection, identity protection, and parental controls. The choice between the two products depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you require comprehensive security features and want to protect your personal information and control your child's online activities, Norton Internet Security 2011 is the recommended choice. However, if you prefer a lightweight antivirus solution with minimal impact on system performance, Norton Antivirus 2011 is a suitable option. Consider your priorities and budget when making the decision, and ensure you choose the product that best aligns with your requirements.