Problems with Norton Security and Windows 10: Do You Really Need Antivirus Software?

When it comes to protecting your computer from malware and viruses, there are many opinions on what's best. Recently, I posed a question to my Twitter followers: Does Microsoft's built-in Windows Security software provide enough protection for typical PC users?

The consensus answer was yes, with caveats. However, the debate surrounding antivirus software is not a simple one. Some experts argue that everyone should be paying for antivirus software, while others believe that Microsoft's built-in security features are sufficient.

I decided to dig deeper and explore this topic further. As someone who regularly reviews laptops for PCWorld, I've noticed that nearly every laptop I've reviewed comes with some form of antivirus trialware from companies like McAfee and Norton. This led me to wonder: do we really need extra antivirus software?

Justin Duino of How-To Geek pointed out a helpful article on the subject, which recommended using Windows Security in conjunction with Malwarebytes' free malware scanner. While this may be a good option for some users, it's not the only way to stay safe online.

In my initial sanity check on my antivirus assumptions, I put out the question on Twitter and received a range of responses from readers and family members. Some agreed that Microsoft's built-in security features were enough, while others believed that extra antivirus software was necessary.

Ultimately, what I've learned is that most people can indeed skate by without extra antivirus software. While it may be tempting to try out free trialware or purchase antivirus software, the truth is that Windows Security provides a good level of protection for typical PC users.

However, it's important to note that this advice comes not just from companies that sell antivirus suites, but also from reputable sites that perform antivirus software reviews (PCWorld included). So, what does this mean for you? Should you be paying for antivirus software?

The answer is no. While some experts argue that everyone should be paying for antivirus software, the truth is that Microsoft's built-in security features are sufficient for most users. Of course, there may be some users who need extra protection, such as those who engage in high-risk activities online or have sensitive information stored on their computers.

In conclusion, while some companies pay PC makers for placement, which wouldn't make sense if no one bought the products, right? The consensus answer is that most people can indeed skate by without extra antivirus software. So, take a closer look at your security settings and consider whether you really need to invest in antivirus software.

Problems with norton security and windows 10