In CNET Labs tests, running Norton AntiVirus 2005 results in the same amount of drag on system performance as running McAfee and Trend Micro PC-cillin. Version 2005's list price remains unchanged at $49.95 and is comparable to the cost of Trend Micro PC-cillin Internet Security 2004, which includes a full firewall and antispam tools not found in Norton AntiVirus 2005. In our informal tests, Norton took 37 minutes to scan a 12GB partition. Unfortunately, its real-time scanner doesn't detect spyware rather, Norton spots these menaces during only a full system scan or a Quick Scan, the latter of which runs immediately after virus-definition downloads. Like its predecessor, Norton AntiVirus 2005 scans for hidden spyware threats, including adware, dialers, and keystroke loggers that record every key you tap. This year Norton saves time with its new Quick Scan engine, checking only the usual-suspect files and folders-those with Startup entries or with System-Start INI or batch entries-and skipping less likely files and folders, such as music and image folders. In version 2004, a preinstall antivirus scan examined every file on your PC-time-consuming overkill. Norton AntiVirus 2005 now takes less time to setup and configure than before. But new users should shop around for an antivirus program that also includes a firewall, such as last year's Editors' Choice, Trend Micro PC-cillin Internet Security 2004, or the newly released ZoneAlarm with Antivirus. Current Norton users should upgrade to 2005, however, as the upgrade costs only $5 more than Symantec's annual subscription-renewal fee. The new Quick Scan tool, which automatically searches for viruses following updates, is a welcome addition however, we're less thrilled with the much-touted worm blocker because it doesn't match the level of protection found in full-fledged firewalls offered in competing antivirus packages. Norton's strengths remain its well-designed interface and impressive virus-blocking performance history. If Norton AntiVirus 2005 is long on dependability, it's short on sizzle, adding only a few modest enhancements to last year's version.
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