For several years now, Norton Internet Security has been available for the Mac. It’s understandable that many users who are looking for a comprehensive security suite for Mac immediately turn to the offering from one of the leaders in computer security and antivirus and anti-malware protection in all formats.
Although the Mac platform has yet to see the sort of daily deluge of new viruses and malware that Windows does, one might think that there’s some comfort offered by a developer like Norton, which has done a good job of protecting Windows computers despite the constant threats, in case the day does arrive that Mac malware makers get to that level. It is starting to look like that day will arrive before long, but is Norton really the way to go for Mac users?
The Basics
Norton promises that this package will provide antivirus and anti-malware protection as well as a two-way firewall and Norton Confidential, a utility which identifies fraudulent phishing sites. Norton Internet Security has more in the way of significant features than any other Mac security software, and it comes with a $79.99 US per year price tag.
The Pros
The most comforting thing about this package is that it places all of Norton’s resources at your disposal, with regular, reliable updates, always the latest definitions (which you can get automatically), and virtually bulletproof protection. Users who have prior experience with Norton’s Windows-based security software will be glad to know that Norton Internet Security for Mac is more or less the same in terms of performance and ease of use.
Maybe the best thing about the Norton package, though, is that its performance has improved drastically over previous versions in terms of CPU usage. It’s no longer a resource hog, which may be difficult for disgruntled past users to believe. Norton Internet Security offers possibly the absolute best in both protection and convenience among Mac-based security packages. Everything, including the firewall, is very easy to customize in accordance with your preferences, and once you’ve got it set up to your liking, Norton Internet Security will do a good job of looking after itself if you so desire.
The Cons
There aren’t too many negative things to say about Norton. One potential area for improvement is the documentation; it’s a bit on the light side for this version, and this may be a problem for new users, especially for a program that has so many features. Of course, the price is almost double that of any other security program for individual users, and Norton doesn’t currently offer any volume discounts.
The Verdict
Norton Internet Security is the premium product in security for Macs. It will protect your computer without the need for much in the way of hands-on management. If you want the best protection, and you don’t mind the price, Norton is absolutely the way to go.
Related posts:
- iAntiVirus vs. Norton Internet Security: Mac Antivirus Software Comparison
- Internet Security Barrier X6 Review: Complete Mac Security
- Intego VirusBarrier X6 Review – Mac Antivirus Software
- Norton vs. McAfee for Mac: Head-to-Head Which is Better?
- McAfee VirusScan for Mac: Antivirus Software Review
