Norton vs Total Av Pro- What Is The Best Antivirus?
TotalAV Pro vs Norton: A Comprehensive Comparison
Two big players in the antivirus world are facing off. After testing both, here’s what we discovered about which one comes out on top.
TotalAV vs. Norton” in 5 bullet points:
Key Similarities: Both TotalAV and Norton excel at detecting modern malware and offer supplemental features like VPNs and password managers. They also have multiple subscription options.
Key Differences: Norton includes a firewall, while TotalAV does not. TotalAV supports ChromeOS, whereas Norton doesn’t. TotalAV offers a free version, while Norton only has a free trial.
Malware Protection: Both are effective at detecting malware, but TotalAV outperforms Norton with a 93.4% detection rate versus Norton’s 86%, and TotalAV had zero false alarms.
User Experience: TotalAV provides a more streamlined, user-friendly experience compared to Norton, which can feel bulky and complicated.
Final Recommendation: TotalAV wins overall for its superior virus detection, user experience, and pricing, though Norton may be better for users needing more comprehensive features like identity theft protection.
Key Similarities
Both do an above-average job detecting modern malware.
They offer extra features like VPNs and password managers.
Both have various subscription plans to cater to different needs and budgets.
Key Differences
Norton includes a firewall, but TotalAV does not.
TotalAV supports ChromeOS, while Norton does not.
TotalAV provides a free version, whereas Norton only offers a free trial.
Key Takeaway
While both Norton and TotalAV are excellent antivirus options, TotalAV edges out with its better malware detection, smoother user experience, and overall value.
By now, it’s clear that the internet can be a risky place. Hackers, scammers, and identity thieves are everywhere, while malware like trojans, worms, and spyware lurk in the shadows.
So how do you protect yourself from these threats? The answer lies in using top-tier antivirus software. These programs not only detect and remove harmful files but often come with extra features to safeguard your identity and secure your network.
Today, we’ll compare two leading antivirus providers: TotalAV and Norton. We’ll assess their performance, value, and which might be the best fit for you. But first, let me explain how this comparison was done.
protectyourpcsmart.com Review Process
I personally purchase each antivirus program I review and install it on my own devices. I spend several days using the software to evaluate how well it functions, its impact on device performance, and the overall user experience. After that, I conduct tests using files designed to mimic real malware to see how the programs perform in critical situations. I gather data on their effectiveness, and only then do I write my reviews.
Once the reviews are complete, I revisit each program’s key features and compare them to other options. This thorough process ensures that I can provide an accurate recommendation on which service is the best.
Now that you know my approach, let’s jump into the most important aspect.
Malware Protection
With the countless threats online today, it’s crucial to have an antivirus program that keeps evolving to tackle new dangers. But how do you know which one is best? The answer lies in thorough testing.
According to independent tests from the German AV-Test Institute, both Norton and TotalAV are highly effective at detecting and neutralizing modern malware. TotalAV caught 93.4% of the test viruses, while Norton detected 86%. Notably, TotalAV had zero false alarms, while Norton reported 12. This makes TotalAV’s performance particularly impressive.
In my own tests, I saw similar results to those from the AV-Test Institute. TotalAV immediately detected an EICAR test file, though its real-time scan struggled with it when archived. However, once I manually scanned the archive, TotalAV found it. Not perfect, but still impressive.
For Norton, I tested five types of viruses hidden in different file formats (XLSX, EXE, DOC, XLSM, and SLX). It detected three of the five right away, but the DOC and XLSM files got through. While that might seem concerning, only about 5% of antivirus programs I’ve tested catch all five. Overall, I’d give Norton a solid B+ for virus detection.
Considering both my tests and the AV-Test Institute’s findings, I’d say TotalAV wins this round, though not by a huge margin. Still, it’s a clear victory.
While malware protection is the most important function of antivirus software, it’s not the only thing to consider. User experience also matters—you don’t want a provider with a confusing interface or a difficult purchasing process.
When it comes to user experience, TotalAV wins. Everything, from buying the product to using the desktop client and mobile app, is smooth and easy to navigate. Norton, on the other hand, feels more cumbersome, and adjusting settings can be confusing at times. Plus, with Norton offering so many different products, it can be tricky to figure out which one to choose.
Both Norton and TotalAV offer valuable extra security features like password managers and virtual private networks (VPNs). However, Norton goes a step further by including identity theft protection, dark web monitoring, and parental controls. The real standout, though, is Norton’s firewall.
A strong firewall like Norton’s tracks all incoming and outgoing network traffic, blocking suspicious activity. This is your first line of defense against online threats, and it’s a crucial feature in any antivirus program comparison.
Norton’s firewall is especially advanced. It includes intrusion protection to block hacking attempts and a vulnerability assessment to identify weak points in your security and offer solutions. These features are pretty impressive.
While both services have useful extra features, Norton’s advanced firewall gives it the edge in this category.
Supplemental Features Winner: Norton
Pricing Structure
Now that we’ve covered what these two programs can do, let’s dive into their pricing. It’s important to note that I won’t just be picking the cheaper option here. I’m also considering how flexible their subscription plans are and the overall value they offer. Let’s start by breaking down Norton’s pricing structure.
As mentioned earlier, Norton excels in supplemental features with its premium subscription plans, but keep an eye on the prices, as they increase significantly after the first year. Before we discuss overall value, let’s examine TotalAV’s pricing.
Here’s a breakdown of TotalAV:( The last time we checked they give PC tune-up and 2 additional licenses for free)
TotalAV provides significantly more with its most affordable plan. Although its premium tiers may not be as feature-rich as Norton’s, they are much more budget-friendly. In terms of overall value, I would choose TotalAV.
The final category we’ll examine is customer support and how effectively Norton and TotalAV assist their users, especially when issues arise.
Both Norton and TotalAV provide accessible support for customers in need, but I believe TotalAV excels slightly in this area. They offer an email ticket system, which means you don’t have to call for troubleshooting. Additionally, their live chat feature is more user-friendly, aligning with their overall streamlined experience.
Although both services prioritize customer care, TotalAV does a slightly better job in this regard.
TotalAV Pro Edges Out Norton Antivirus: A Streamlined Security Champion
Looking for top-notch antivirus protection? This comparison pits TotalAV Pro against Norton Antivirus, with TotalAV emerging victorious. Here’s why:
Superior Malware Detection: Independent tests and internal trials show TotalAV excels at identifying and neutralizing modern malware, often surpassing Norton.
User-Friendly Experience: TotalAV boasts a sleek interface across all platforms (desktop, mobile) making security management a breeze. Norton, on the other hand, can be clunky and confusing.
Competitive Pricing: TotalAV offers more features at lower price points, especially considering the significant price hikes Norton imposes after the first year. Plus, TotalAV boasts a free version with no time limit, a major advantage.
Customer Support: Both prioritize support, but TotalAV shines with its email ticketing system and streamlined live chat, aligning with its overall user-centric approach.
However, Norton has some strengths:
Advanced Firewall: Provides intrusion protection and vulnerability assessments, offering an extra layer of defense.
Comprehensive Security Features: Higher tiers include identity theft protection, dark web monitoring, and parental controls, ideal for those needing a complete security suite.
The Bottom Line:
For core malware protection and a user-friendly experience, TotalAV Pro reigns supreme.
If you require a comprehensive security suite with advanced features like a firewall and identity protection, Norton might be worth considering, but be aware of the pricing structure.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific needs.
There are a few security features built into your pc, including:
App Review. Before downloading an app , it is checked for validity. Gatekeeper. Before running an app, it is scanned for dangerous code. Web security. Safari blocks dangerous websites and tracking links. Anti-theft tools. If your device is lost or stolen, you can use this app to track it.
While these capabilities are helpful, they aren’t sufficient to protect your pc from ransomware, spyware, adware, and other complex
malware used by criminals to spy on you and steal your data.
Real-time malware scanning, ransomware protection, pc optimization tools, and advanced phishing protection aren’t included in even
the most recent version of macOS. That’s why the ideal option is to install a comprehensive antivirus suite like Intego – an antivirus
designed to keep you 100 % safe against all cybersecurity threats.
Is antivirus software really necessary for my pc?
Yes, absolutely. Hackers have built (and are continuously developing) highly sophisticated pc-based malware, making your pc increasingly
vulnerable to cyber-attacks. If you don’t have antivirus software installed on your device, you risk having all of your data taken and your
system destroyed.
However, you must be cautious to only download reliable and legal antivirus software. If your antivirus is useless, you’ll be forced to trust
a product that won’t protect you.
All of the antiviruses on this list offer decent protection for pc computers, including effective malware scanners, a variety of internet security
features, ease of use, and a reasonable price.
Is there a free antivirus program available ?
Yes, there are a few good free antivirus programs , such as Avira and Sophos.
Keep in mind, however, that free antiviruses are only free because there is a “catch” – these companies usually want you to switch to a
premium plan.
A free antivirus can suffice if you don’t have a lot of sensitive data on your pc. However, if you’re like me and keep all of your credit card
information, login information, work documents, images, and creative projects on your device, I strongly advise you to invest in a low-cost
premium Mac antivirus like Intego.
protection. That’s why the ideal option is to install a comprehensive antivirus suite like Intego – an antivirus designed to keep you 100
percent safe against all cybersecurity threats.
Liam Thomas works for soloantivirus.com as a writer and IT specialist.
After having to save his fiancée and family members from several computer attacks over the years, he is extremely passionate about cybersecurity. He enjoys putting antivirus software and other cybersecurity solutions to the test to see which ones provide the best protection.