Antivirus Software: AVG vs. Norton

When you buy security software for your computer, you will likely compare AVG vs. Norton. Both of these companies' antivirus software products have a staggering number of features and well-established credibility.

Both AVG and Norton have easy-to-use setups and control panels that will make even computer novices feel comfortable using the software. You don't have to trade safety for usability with either product.

Norton’s database of known malware will keep your computer safe from threats. Norton’s Insight feature allows Norton to scan files that might be at risk, leaving trusted files untouched so that scans run faster without wasting time on safe files.

Users have reported that Norton's antivirus software doesn't detect certain viruses and malware. Often, these users have needed to run second security software to find infections that Norton missed. Running two security software applications simultaneously can use an unnecessary amount of memory and slow down your computer.

AVG seems to have similar problems. While AVG does find malicious items, it also tends to target files on your computer that aren't unsafe. This can cause you endless annoyance since you have to put these items on a safe list manually every time AVG suspects them of foul play.

AVG also performs system scans slowly, introducing lags into the operation of other software during the process. Thankfully, AVG only scans items that have been modified rather than your entire system, so after it performs its first exhaustive full-system scan, you shouldn't have to worry about it affecting your computer's operating speed.

When comparing AVG vs. Norton in terms of gaming options, both products provide unobtrusive protection while they run in gaming mode. All you need to do is activate the gaming option to keep the software running in the background, where it won't interrupt the performance of other software, such as games and movie players, with pop-up notifications and other warnings. Norton users have reported that its antivirus software can be obtrusive, often blocking viable software and slowing your computer’s overall speed by displaying pop-up security updates while you are using other software. Activating the gaming option will keep Norton's antivirus software from interrupting your activities.

Both security software applications provide protection from worms, viruses, keyloggers, Trojans and rootkits. They both offer constant updates that are quick and easy to download, so you can rest assured that either system is up to date with emerging threats.

In the AVG vs. Norton comparison, Norton has an advantage over AVG in that it has adjustable security settings that make it easier for you to control what it monitors on your computer. AVG lacks these settings.

While both companies' antivirus software applications have problems with speed and conspicuous CPU usage, both offer a gaming mode that makes it easier to use other software while the security software is running. Norton's features and ease of use give it an edge over AVG. Norton will provide you with peace of mind as you open files, check your email and cruse the internet.

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