Norton Antivirus
The Best Cross-Platform Antivirus Software
Product Specs
Who Norton Antivirus Is Best For
Norton 360 works across multiple platforms, and also has feature-rich apps. We recommend installing and using antivirus software on all your devices, from computers to smartphones. For that, you'll need an antivirus with great cross-platform support, which is exactly what we saw from Norton. We had no trouble using its apps across a variety of devices and operating systems.
Pros
- Affordable introductory prices
- 24/7 phone and live chat support
- Intuitive apps for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS
- Lots of extras (cloud backup, parental control features, etc.)
Cons
- Prices can double or more after the first year
- The password manager is a separate app
- Offers device optimization, but as a separate service
Malware Detection – Excellent
Norton Antivirus Plus has excellent malware detection and protection rates. It detected all the malware test files we threw at it. It also maintains a nearly 100 percent detection and protection rate on AV-TEST's platform, with a perfect protection score since 2014. Norton really shines when it comes to zero-day threat protection. These are attacks that exploit vulnerabilities before they're patched—typically within 24 to 48 hours of discovery. Norton addresses this through a combination of signature-based scanning, behavioral analysis, and cloud-based threat intelligence, along with firewall protection.
User Experience – Excellent
Norton 360 is simple to navigate and use, whether you're on mobile or desktop. Norton Antivirus Plus offers protection for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS devices. You can even install it on ten devices with the highest-tier subscription. All Norton apps offer simple interfaces with helpful explanations of settings and features for newcomers.
Price – Very Good
Families should consider the "Norton 360 with LifeLock Select Plus" subscription. It covers up to 10 devices and provides a decent level of identity theft protection. If you only need to protect a couple of devices and don't need identity theft protection, the "Norton 360 Deluxe" subscription is a great pick. There isn't a free version, but you can try it free for seven days with a 60-day money-back guarantee.