skip to main content

Conflicts using Windows Defender and Norton 360

7 years ago

I'm using Vista (yes, I know, I need to upgrade.) I've used Norton 360 for years now. The other day I had an error message that my computer had security risks from Windows Defender. When I looked at it the antivirus and malware buttons were off. I found out after chatting with Norton that my product needed to be updated to the newest version which took a LONG time. I asked why this happened, I thought it should update automatically and really didn't get an answer. Then everything worked fine until this morning. I had an error message that Norton had done an update and that I needed to restart. (I had never gotten that message before.) So I did and all hell broke loose. Windows explorer wasn't responding, I tried to shut down again and it wouldn't shut down, I finally had to shut off the power and start again, then I didn't get the normal screen when it comes on, just a blue screen. I re-did it a couple of times and finally got back in and went to Norton chat. They looked at it and said it was fine. So I asked if I should turn off Windows Defender (which I had already done) and they said yes, there's no reason to run it. Also since my OS is so old, Microsoft stopped doing updates a few months ago. Any thoughts on if this is true about not running Windows Defender on Vista along with Norton 360 and if not, what caused all this besides my OS being a dinosaur. And please don't get technical because I won't understand.

Sort by:Oldest

Comments (4)

zep516
7 years ago
last modified: 7 years ago
Norton 360 as far as I know was discontinued by Symantec and replaced by Norton Security with backup. That's why your up-date took a long time. Large up dates like that can cause some glitches and a few reboots will solve the issue.

Here's the protection offered from Norton Security with backup,
Protects you against viruses, spyware, hackers, phishing, botnets and more.

With that protection offered from Norton there would be no need for Defender running and could cause possible conflicts.
User
Original Author
7 years ago
I just checked the dashboard and it still says "Norton 360". And the dashboard looks different, so it's been upgraded. All I know is I thought for sure the whole thing was trashed yesterday. I've been meaning to get a new laptop but I'm really not tech-savvy and the thoughts of replacing it is just too daunting a task for me to want to tackle. I know I'm living on borrowed time. Thanks.
Related Discussions
Antivirus programs and ? on Nortons 360
Q
Comments (8)
If you have a multi-user subscription, you should be able to load it onto other computers at any time during the period of the subscription, and the clock starts ticking when you load the first one on. I have a 3-user subscription to Norton anti-virus and I loaded one right away, and another 6 months later. However, I have the disc. Since you downloaded yours, did you save the program on the first computer? If so, you could make a copy on a flash drive, and plug that into your netbook and install it. If you don't have that option, you should go go the Symantec web site. When you put the program on the first computer, there is typically a registration step that establishes an account at Symantec. Each time the program is installed and registered, the registration process takes you to the web site and the number of program installs is kept track of in your account. If you log into this account right now, it should show that you have two installs left of what you bought. If you don't have the program, and/or you can't remember how to get into your account (or can't retrieve the info), call Symantec tech support and explain the problem and they should be able to walk you through this. It would probably be helpful if you had your online receipt of the purchase handy when you do this.
...See More
PC Defender v.x Microsoft's Security Essentials
Q
Comments (5)
save your money ! there are excellent free programs no need to pay them a dime for theirs. If you don't like MSE then go with AVAST. I would definitely not pay for that Pc defender. They make money off of each thing they talk you into so stick to your guns. My ISP provides McAfee free and no way am I going to use it I did that once and never again, caused me so many headaches. Now I use AVAST free.
...See More
Norton 360(2) and Windows Advanced Firewall Settings
Q
Comments (7)
Hey Sandy...did not mean to overlook you. Its getting near quitting time, but - while having huge difficulty with the desktop (an AT&T support tool set-up request screwed up the first attempt) the flash player said something on the order of 'Helps secure router something or other signals'. "Helps" isn't quite enough...so the Windows Firewall Advanced 1394 coverage is remaining checked along with the other checked boxes on that menu. I don't know if I made a mistake or not, but watching grass grow would be faster than the 'backup files' feature. The transfer for 1GB of files has been almost 2 hours. I selected the 'turn off computer upon completion' button and am heading for home. Tomorrow I will ask about another subject...my boss got a bill from an internet provider for dial-up service that she doesn't have...the company has a site ...but I'm not sure what to do. I don't know if its legitimate and/or if responding will only make things worse. No one around here has ever heard of this company. marf
...See More
Ravencajun: Windows Security/AVG conflict
Q
Comments (9)
wait you don't have to take those off just turn them off while you try to get AVG to install and work. They are all fine good programs and should be on the pc. I would bet some of Norton may still be hanging in there causing the problem, so definitely use their removal tool for the version of Norton that she had that should clear up most of it. then go to right click start then explore in the tree> program files see if there is still a folder for Norton if so delete the entire Norton folder, anything you see labeled Norton or Symantec should go. You did not do anything wrong sometimes things just have conflicts and especially with Norton. So do the removal of that then just turn off those programs and try AVG again. The reason I suggest using the method in the AVG faq is that it keeps it from installing some of the extras that have caused problems on some pcs. It is a much slimmer version. You are doing a good deed! You are helping someone ,that is always a good thing. As I said it may require doing an add remove on AVG then reinstalling it, that is why it should be disconnected from the internet since you will be with out protection while AVG is not working. If AVG continues to fail you could try AVAST free, I use it on one of my pcs. avast! 4 Home Edition - FREE antivirus the install and user guide are on that same page off to the left. I do not use Vista so if anyone is aware of any conflict issue that I don't know about hopefully they will let us know.
...See More
Elmer J Fudd
7 years ago
I agree with Zep and will state it simply:

Using more than one security product at a time isn't advised, doing so can cause problems and limit effectiveness. Windows Defender is not a well regarded product, I'd deactivate it and stick with Norton. If the version you have suggests that it's current, it'll do the job. If not, uninstall it and pick another. See the link below for reviews from a trusted source

Reviews of Security Software
kudzu9
7 years ago
I used McAfee for a number of years, and then it seemed to be causing problems. I switched to Norton/Symantec for quite a few more years until that started to give me problems. Finally, I quit paying for antivirus and began using Avast's free version about 4 years ago. Since then, I've had no problems, the updates are simple and fast, I've never gotten an infection, and they just keep improving the product rather than revamping everything every few years like some of the paid antivirus companies. Maybe you're not ready now, but, when you get a new laptop, Rita, consider not installing antivirus that you have to pay for and go with one of the several, highly-rated antivirus packages that are available for free.

Related Stories

FUN HOUZZ How to Survive an Epidemic of Walking Dead

By Becky Harris

Tips to use around the house and garden to prep for the zombie apocalypse

CONTRACTOR TIPS What to Look for in a Contractor's Contract

By Buckminster Green LLC

10 basic ingredients for a contract will help pave the way to remodel happiness

WORKING WITH AN ARCHITECT Who Needs 3D Design? 5 Reasons You Do

By Dylan Chappell Architects

Whether you're remodeling or building new, 3D renderings can help you save money and get exactly what you want on your home project

BATHROOM DESIGN 10 Living Room Touches to Bring to the Bath

By Lisa Higgins

Go ahead, borrow those bookshelves. Unexpected elements can boost interest and comfort in your bathroom

HOUZZ TOURS My Houzz: Goodwill and Good Taste in a Grand Colonial

By Mary Prince Photography

Welcoming the community for charity fundraisers and more, this Massachusetts home radiates graciousness

REMODELING GUIDES Wisdom to Help Your Relationship Survive a Remodel

By Mitchell Parker

Spend less time patching up partnerships and more time spackling and sanding with this insight from a Houzz remodeling survey

ARCHITECTURE Roots of Style: Ranch Architecture Roams Across the U.S.

By Steven Corley Randel, Architect

Great remodeling potential and generously spaced sites make ranch homes ever popular. Is one of the many variations right for you?

DECORATING GUIDES Top 10 Interior Stylist Secrets Revealed

By Erika Ward - Erika Ward Interiors

Give your home's interiors magazine-ready polish with these tips to finesse the finishing design touches

BATHROOM DESIGN 20 Ways to Design an Asian-Style Bathroom

By Natasha Saroca

Want a bathroom that’s inviting and serene, with spa-like luxury? Be inspired by these Asian-style spaces, which offer all that and more

UNIVERSAL DESIGN My Houzz: Universal Design Helps an 8-Year-Old Feel at Home

By Becki Peckham

An innovative sensory room, wide doors and hallways, and other thoughtful design moves make this Canadian home work for the whole family

Sponsored

More Discussions

UPS needed - which ones?

9

sound missing on Dell

3

Problems with Outlook 2013

0

Upgrading Windows 11 from Home to Pro

2

Any suggestions for a very secure non-web-based email?

3