Norton 360 Advanced Review (2025): Is it the right choice?

Full Review

Norton is ranked #1 of the 28 best antivirus of 2025.

Norton 360 offers a robust suite of security tools beyond basic antivirus protection. Even the entry-level plan, Norton Antivirus Plus, includes an advanced anti-malware engine, firewall, anti-phishing tools, password manager, 2 GB of cloud storage, and a 100% Virus Protection Promise, guaranteeing a refund if Norton can’t remove a virus.

Norton 360 Advanced adds valuable features like parental controls (with School Time), an unlimited VPN, dark web monitoring, webcam protection, a privacy monitor, identity theft protection, and 200 GB of cloud storage. Norton LifeLock plans, available in the US and select regions, expands the identity theft protection and increases the storage to 250 GB.

All of Norton’s plans come with a 60-day money-back guarantee.

Anti-malware

Norton’s anti-malware engine ranks among the best, using a combination of a large malware database, heuristic analysis, and machine learning to detect a wide range of threats. During testing, Norton identified 100% of malware samples from a database of nearly 1,200 files, including viruses, trojans, rootkits, zero-day attacks, and more. Its real-time protection also excelled, blocking malware before downloads completed, including encrypted and zipped files.

Norton’s full system scan completed in just 38 minutes—faster than most competitors—and offers additional scan options, including quick, custom, and smart scans. Norton Insight can further reduce scan times by whitelisting trusted files. Additionally, its “silent mode” automatically pauses notifications and scans when full-screen applications like games or movies are running.

Overall, Norton’s malware protection is highly effective, combining thorough detection with efficient performance, customizable scans, and a gamer-friendly approach.

Anti-phishing

Norton’s Safe Web browser extension offers strong anti-phishing protection, available on Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Edge. In testing, it detected nearly all phishing sites, outperforming Chrome. Safe Web also provides detailed reports on blocked sites, including user reviews and safety ratings. You can manually check any site’s status via the Safe Web dashboard, which adds extra value for cautious browsing.

Safe Search, Norton’s search engine, provides color-coded safety ratings for search results—green for safe, red for dangerous—but its accuracy is inconsistent. During testing, many legitimate sites were marked as “untested,” and issues with the color coding on desktop required troubleshooting.

One standout feature is Link Guard, which monitors links on social media and webmail, flagging unsafe content before you click. This ensures safer browsing across platforms like Facebook, Twitter (“X”), and email.

Overall, while Norton’s Safe Web offers excellent phishing protection and detailed insights, Safe Search could use improvements in reliability.

Firewall

Norton’s Smart Firewall is a significant upgrade over standard Windows and macOS firewalls, offering advanced protections like ARP and DNS spoofing prevention, SSL man-in-the-middle attack detection, and port access monitoring. It also provides extensive customization options, far exceeding those of competitors like McAfee.

In testing, Norton’s firewall detected all network intrusions that bypassed the Windows firewall. It also placed network ports in Stealth mode, effectively hiding them from potential hackers. Users can create detailed access rules for individual programs and control traffic for built-in Windows services, though the default settings are sufficient for most users.

Additionally, Norton monitors 136 uncommon network protocols for suspicious activity, alerting users to potential malware threats that could exploit these channels.

Overall, Norton’s Smart Firewall is highly effective, with strong detection capabilities and customizable settings for advanced users, making it one of the best in its class.

Password manager

Norton’s password manager stands out as one of the better offerings among antivirus suites, providing secure, multi-device password storage and useful features like password vault auditing. While it’s not as feature-rich as standalone managers like 1Password or Dashlane, it offers solid functionality and is easy to use.

Key features include:

• 256-bit AES encryption for security.
• Unlimited storage for passwords, credit card info, and secure notes.
• Syncing across PCs, Macs, Android, and iOS devices.
• Browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and Safari.
• Auto-save, auto-fill, password generator, and vault auditing.

During testing, it easily imported passwords from LastPass and filled in login details accurately. Its vault auditing feature highlights weak or reused passwords, providing real-time security feedback. Mobile login via biometrics (fingerprint or face scan) is a convenient addition, and two-factor authentication (2FA) for the Norton account enhances security, though 2FA doesn’t apply directly to the password manager itself, which is a drawback.

A notable limitation is the lack of robust account recovery options. If you forget your master password, recovery is only possible via biometrics or a recovery key. Otherwise, users must reset their vault entirely, which could be problematic.

Overall, Norton’s password manager offers excellent value for users seeking a simple, secure solution with multi-device sync, but it falls short in recovery flexibility compared to standalone apps.

VPN

Norton Secure VPN stands out as one of the best antivirus-bundled VPNs in 2025, offering unlimited data on all plans, a feature many competitors reserve for their top tiers. It provides strong security, including 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch (on Windows and Android), a no-logs policy, and extra features like Wi-Fi security, split-tunneling (Windows and Android), ad blocking, and Tor compatibility.

Norton also includes its own obfuscation protocol, Mimic, which masks VPN traffic as regular HTTPS traffic, making it harder to detect and block, especially useful in restrictive regions. While this helps bypass throttling and potentially speeds up connections, Norton’s VPN still struggles with accessing certain streaming services, particularly Disney+, though it works well with Netflix, Max, Amazon Prime, and BBC iPlayer.

With 2,000+ servers in 29 countries, Norton’s network is solid but not as extensive as standalone VPNs like NordVPN or Surfshark, which offer servers in over 100 countries. Despite the smaller network, most users should find a server nearby for decent connection speeds, though Norton’s speeds are not the fastest compared to competitors like TotalAV or Bitdefender.

In speed tests, Norton’s VPN caused some slowdown but still allowed smooth HD streaming and browsing. However, speeds dropped more noticeably when connected to servers further away, such as in Europe from the US.

While torrenting is supported, it’s only available on Norton’s standalone VPN app and restricted to dedicated P2P servers, all located in the Netherlands. This setup may limit download speeds for users outside Europe.

Norton bundles its VPN with the Standard (1 device), Deluxe (5 devices), and LifeLock (10 devices) plans. Overall, while Norton Secure VPN isn’t as powerful as standalone VPNs, it offers solid encryption, unlimited data, a no-logs policy, and good ease of use, making it a strong choice for users seeking a VPN within an antivirus package.

Other security features

Private Browser

Norton’s Private Browser is a free, Chromium-based browser for Windows and Mac, with built-in privacy features like Privacy Guard (blocking ads and trackers), Web Shield (blocking malicious websites), and Norton Password Manager. While it includes useful tools like Extension Guard and Privacy Cleaner, it doesn’t offer much beyond what users can achieve with standard browsers and extensions. Features like the Video Downloader (which doesn’t work with YouTube) and Coupons (US only) add some value, but overall, tech-savvy users may find it underwhelming compared to standalone browsers.

Data Protector

Norton’s Data Protector offers excellent ransomware protection by blocking ransomware before it can encrypt your files. In tests, it effectively blocked all 25 ransomware samples, even after being whitelisted. It’s also customizable, allowing you to easily add extra files and folders for protection. Data Protector outperforms many competitors, such as Malwarebytes, and is easy to configure for added security.

Parental Controls

Norton’s Parental Controls are some of the best on the market, available for Windows, iOS, and Android. They allow you to monitor an unlimited number of devices and offer features such as web and app filtering, time limits, YouTube monitoring, and location tracking. The School Time feature is especially useful for managing online activities during school hours. However, the parental controls are not available on Mac or Chromebooks, and tech-savvy kids may find ways to bypass them on Windows. Despite these limitations, Norton’s controls are highly effective and user-friendly.

Privacy Monitor

Norton’s Privacy Monitor helps protect your personal information by identifying data brokers that hold your data and assisting in the removal of your details. The tool scans 19 data brokers and provides an easy-to-use interface for requesting removal. Norton also offers a Privacy Monitor Assistant service for automatic removal. While similar to McAfee’s Personal Data Cleanup, Norton’s solution works efficiently and is a valuable privacy tool.

Device Optimization

Norton’s Device Optimization tools are basic but effective. Features include disk defragmentation, file cleanup (removing temporary files), and a startup manager. The Graphs feature is especially useful, showing a timeline of system activity like virus scans and performance notifications. However, the file cleanup tool lacks the ability to remove cookies, duplicate files, or unused program files, which competitors like Avira and TotalAV offer.

Upgrading to Utilities Ultimate provides more advanced system optimization, with real-time cleanup of browser cache, Windows junk files, and registry files, along with customization options for retaining specific files. Overall, it enhances system performance more effectively than Norton’s basic tools.

Utilities Ultimate

Norton’s Utilities Ultimate is a robust system optimization tool designed to improve PC performance and clean up junk files automatically. Key features include:

• Process management: Allows you to view and manage background applications easily, similar to Task Manager.
• System junk cleaner: Cleans shortcuts, broken registry items, and junk files to enhance speed.
• Uninstall simulator/uninstaller: Simplifies app removal and lets you test how your PC reacts to uninstalls.
• Disk optimization: Automatically optimizes your PC’s disks to avoid bloat.
• Data recovery: Helps recover deleted files before they are permanently erased.
• Data shredder: Permanently deletes files.
• Undo Center: Allows you to undo changes made by Utilities Ultimate.
• Statistics and NetBooster: Provides performance reports and optimizes internet settings for better speeds.
• RAM Reclaimer: Frees up memory to boost system performance.

While Norton’s default tools are adequate, Utilities Ultimate significantly enhances optimization, though it’s only available as a paid add-on, unlike competitors like Avira, which include similar tools in premium plans.

Dark Web Monitor

Norton’s Dark Web Monitor scans dark web forums and breach databases to detect if your personal information (PII) has been exposed. It monitors a wide range of data, including bank account numbers, credit cards, addresses, and driver’s license info. Norton uses human agents to infiltrate dark web forums, offering more comprehensive protection than competitors like Kaspersky. If your data is found, Norton’s team provides guidance on securing your information. Currently available in over 30 countries, it’s a standout feature, especially when combined with Norton’s LifeLock identity protection.

LifeLock Identity Theft Protection

Norton’s LifeLock provides top-tier identity protection services, including credit report monitoring, identity recovery assistance, credit freezing, and legal aid. It monitors the top three US credit bureaus (TransUnion, Experian, and Equifax) and notifies users of any suspicious activity. LifeLock offers up to $1M in identity theft insurance and legal support, making it a comprehensive solution. However, LifeLock is only available in certain countries (mainly the US), and adding family members can be pricey. Despite these drawbacks, it’s one of the best identity theft protection services available.

Driver Updater

Norton’s Driver Updater scans and updates outdated drivers efficiently. It offers one-click updates, compatibility checks, and a backup/revert tool in case of any issues post-update. In tests, it was faster than competitors like Avast and worked without slowing down the system, making it a reliable option for maintaining secure and up-to-date drivers.

Software Updater

The Software Updater automatically updates outdated software on your PC. It found five outdated programs in tests and updated them easily without overloading the system. Norton allows users to exclude programs from updates and offers an auto-update feature, saving time. However, it doesn’t update drivers, unlike Avira, but it remains a valuable tool for keeping your software secure and up-to-date.

Cloud Backup

Norton’s Cloud Backup is a reliable cloud storage tool for PC users, offering up to 500 GB of storage depending on your plan. It allows scheduled backups, file selection, and the option to back up to either the cloud or local disks. While it isn’t as advanced as standalone cloud services, it provides solid protection for important files, making it a good choice if you’re not already using another cloud service.

Additional Features

Norton 360 offers many extra features, including:

• PC SafeCam: Protects your webcam from unauthorized access (Windows only).
• Spam filter: Filters spam emails and allows custom block/exclusion lists.
• AntiTrack: A separate add-on that blocks online trackers and disguises your digital fingerprint.
• Safe Email: For an additional fee, Norton monitors up to five email addresses for phishing, scams, and malware.

Plans and pricing

In the table below are the core products with their features and prices.

The prices shown are from the USA. However, most brands have different prices (and currencies) in other regions. So visit the brand’s website to see the price in our country.

Plan description

Norton AntiVirus Plus

The basic plan, priced at $19.99 / year, covers one device and includes real-time malware protection, a smart firewall, password manager, and 2GB cloud storage. It lacks features like VPN and dark web monitoring.

Norton 360 Standard

For $39.99 / year, you get a bit more, covering one device (or 3 in the US). It includes everything from the basic plan plus VPN, webcam protection, and dark web monitoring. It’s a decent plan for single-device users.

Norton 360 Deluxe

Our top pick for most users, costing $49.99 / year. Covers up to 5 devices and adds parental controls, privacy monitor, and boosts cloud storage to 50GB. Unfortunately, it doesn’t allow for adding just one or two extra devices; you’d have to upgrade to the next plan.

Norton 360 for Gamers

Priced like the Deluxe plan, it focuses on gaming with a game booster feature. It covers 3 devices and is perfect for gamers looking to optimize their systems.

Norton 360 Premium & Advanced

These are enhanced plans with more device coverage (up to 10) and greater cloud storage (100GB or 200GB). Priced at $59.99 / year, they’re good for larger households with more devices.

Norton 360 with LifeLock Select (US Only)

Starting at $99.99 / year, it’s an identity-protection focused plan with credit monitoring, $25,000 identity theft insurance, and many other features. It’s not cheap but provides peace of mind.

Norton 360 with LifeLock Advantage (US Only)

This is a pricier version of LifeLock Select, costing $191.88 / year. It has all of LifeLock Select’s features but with enhanced identity protections like $100,000 identity theft insurance and more.

Norton 360 with LifeLock Ultimate Plus (US Only)

The most expensive plan at $299.88 / year, it covers unlimited devices and has the most extensive identity protection features, including $1M identity theft reimbursement.

To summarize, Norton offers a wide range of plans to fit varying needs and budgets, from basic antivirus protection to extensive identity theft coverage. Choose based on your specific requirements.

Test score comparison

We conduct in-house anti-malware tests and review the results from AV-Test, a German lab renowned for its objective evaluations. Below is the average of the last 10 AV-Test results for Windows. Their scoring criteria are:

• Protection (1-6): Effectiveness in blocking malware.
• Performance (1-6): Impact on system speed.
• Usability (1-6): Frequency of errors like false alarms.

We calculate a final score using this formula:

Final Score = 60% Protection + 20% Performance + 20% Usability.

While these results influence our choice of the best antivirus for Windows 11, other factors like privacy and identity protection also play a key role. For a similar analysis for Android or macOS, visit our other comparisons:

• The best antivirus for Android.
• The best antivirus for Mac.

Note: Brands not listed in the table either do not participate in AV-Test trials or are tested too infrequently, such as Surfshark Antivirus.

Source: AV-Test (Last updated: December 2024).

Price comparison

We’ve compared the prices of the top antivirus products for Windows. To make it a fair comparison, we looked at what it would cost us, to protect a  single Windows PC with the most essential features:

• Anti-malware
• Anti-phishing (web protection)
• Firewall
• Password manager
• Unlimited VPN (no data limit)

A few notes:

• Some brands are missing features, lowering their value for money.
• Prices are second-year prices in the USA, without first-year discounts.
• Prices are rounded up for readability (e.g., $99.99 becomes $100).

Brands have different prices outside the USA. See those on their website.

User reviews

We’ve compared the user reviews of all antivirus brands. We’ve used the scores and review count of TrustPilot, a leading user review platform. 

We consider scores above 4.0 very good. Lower scores indicate that the brand might have a poor product or customer service. McAfee’s scores, for instance, are worrying.

Source: TrustPilot. Last Update: December 2024.

Company Profile

Norton is part of the Gen Digital family (NASDAQ: GEN), a global leader in Cyber Safety with a mission to make the digital world safer and more private for everyone.

Gen is a collection of renowned cybersecurity brands that serve over 500 million users in 150 countries. Its portfolio includes Norton, Avast, LifeLock, Avira, and AVG.

Operating from dual headquarters in Tempe, Arizona, and Prague, Czech Republic, Gen brings together cutting-edge AI technology and data analytics to tackle today’s most pressing cybersecurity challenges. 

By consolidating these brands, Gen combines expertise and innovation to address both current and future cybersecurity threats.

How we test antivirus software

At SoftwareLab, we provide thorough and unbiased antivirus reviews to help you make informed cybersecurity decisions. Our comprehensive testing covers all critical aspects of antivirus performance. We assess each product in six key categories, weighted by importance:

For even more details, visit our blog posts on how we test antivirus software.