Norton Review
Get Norton
- Real-time protection against viruses, malware, ransomware, and online threats
- Excellent independent malware protection test results
- Includes VPN, password manager, and dark web monitoring
- Available across Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS
- Strong selection of additional privacy and security features
- Renewal prices are significantly higher than first-year promotional prices
- Some advanced features are limited to more expensive plans
- Cloud Backup is primarily a Windows-focused feature
- The large number of features and plan options can feel complicated
Protection Rate
Norton delivers excellent malware protection and consistently performs well in independent security testing. In AV-TEST's April and June 2026 Windows evaluations, Norton 360 received the maximum 6/6 Protection score. It also achieved 100% detection in the reported zero-day and widespread-malware tests, making it one of the strongest options for everyday threat protection.
Performance Impact
Norton offers strong protection without imposing a major overall performance penalty in independent testing. AV-TEST awarded Norton 360 the maximum 6/6 Performance score in its 2026 Windows evaluations. Individual activities can still experience some slowdown, particularly website loading and software installation, but its overall performance profile remains competitive with leading antivirus suites.
Features
Norton 360 combines traditional antivirus protection with a broad set of security and privacy tools. Norton 360 Standard currently includes malware and ransomware protection, Scam Protection, a VPN, Password Manager, Dark Web Monitoring, Deepfake Protection, and 2 GB of Cloud Backup. Higher-tier plans add features such as Privacy Monitor, Parental Control, additional cloud storage, and LifeLock identity protection on eligible U.S. plans.
Pricing
Norton 360 Standard currently starts at $39.99 for the first year, equivalent to about $3.33 per month, and protects up to three PCs, Macs, tablets, or phones. Norton 360 Deluxe starts at $49.99 for the first year and expands coverage to five devices with 50 GB of cloud backup and additional features. Buyers should pay attention to renewal pricing, as Norton 360 Standard currently renews at $94.99 per year and Deluxe at $124.99 per year.
UI / UX
Norton provides a polished interface designed to make its main security tools accessible without requiring advanced technical knowledge. Core functions such as scans, VPN access, password management, and security monitoring are organized into clearly identifiable areas. The main drawback is that Norton now includes many additional privacy, identity, and scam-protection tools, which can make the overall experience feel busier than simpler antivirus products.
Compare with
FAQ
Is Norton a good antivirus?
Yes. Norton is a strong antivirus suite with excellent independent protection results and a broad selection of security and privacy features. AV-TEST awarded Norton 360 maximum scores for protection, performance, and usability in multiple 2026 tests.
Does Norton have a free version?
No. Norton does not offer a permanent free antivirus plan, although free trials may be available for selected products.
Does Norton work on Mac and mobile devices?
Yes. Norton 360 supports Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS, although specific features can vary depending on the operating system.
Does Norton include a VPN?
Yes. Current Norton 360 plans include a VPN alongside antivirus protection, Password Manager, Dark Web Monitoring, and other security features.
How much does Norton cost?
Norton 360 Standard currently starts at $39.99 for the first year in the U.S., or about $3.33 per month when calculated from the annual price. The subscription renews at a higher regular rate, so users should check the current renewal price before purchasing.