Norton SystemWorks 2002

Norton SystemWorks 2002 is the latest release of Symantec's all-in-one computer protection software. This release is compatible with Windows XP, so if you're a Norton user changing to the new operating system, this is a prime reason for updating.

The inclusion of GoBack 3 Personal Edition, a system recovery tool that allows you to revert your hard disk drive to a time when your computer was stable, brings one of Windows XP's best features to its predecessors.

This should also make up for the disappointment many users felt when CrashGuard was dropped from the 2001 version. However, be aware that GoBack 3 reserves 10 per cent of your hard disk space or half your free space if less than 20 per cent is available.

Symantec acknowledges that many people only try Norton SystemWorks after they've encountered a problem, so the manual usefully begins with emergency procedures. You can boot your PC from the installation CD-ROM or create boot floppy disks, which is invaluable after a virus attack or if your PC won't start at all.

From here you can scan for and remove viruses, repair files or repair your hard disk drive. Bear in mind, though, that the virus definitions stored on the CD-ROM won't be the latest available. Booting from the CD-ROM could also help when reclaiming a deleted file, but if you install the program for this task, it could overwrite the file you're looking for.

Accessing the software's main features is primarily done via the main program window. It comprises so many individual utilities and functions that the choice can be confusing. Symantec has created a nice design for the main program window, which groups functions together in expanding and collapsing buttons located on the left-hand side. The contents are displayed to the right. Across the top are buttons that apply to more than one functional group at a time.

The virus definition update is a subscription service that you'll have to renew after a year for around $9.95.

The program provides tools for detecting and removing viruses, optimising performance by removing unused files and defragmenting your data, checking for and repairing hard disk and Windows problems, recovering deleted files or permanently erasing others, and more. Email protection is also expanded to cover programs that use POP3 and SMTP communication protocols.

The 2002 version includes a new utility called Process Viewer, which shows detailed information about every Windows process running on your PC.

Norton SystemWorks 2002 provides an important update for Windows XP users, but the inclusion of GoBack 3 Personal Edition makes it worth consideration.

Contact

Symantec: St Cloud's Gate, St Cloud's Way, Maidenhead, Berkshire SL6 8XD
Tel 020 7616 5600, Fax 01628 592393
www.symantec.co.uk

See also:

Symantec Norton Systemworks 2003

A suite of applications worth buying if you want to protect your PC from the bad guys.  13 Dec 2002

Norton AntiVirus 2002

Update to Symantec's established antivirus software.  07 May 2002

Network Associates VirusScan Professional 6.0

Gives you fine control over the behaviour of your antivirus software.  02 May 2002

Symantec Norton Systemworks 2002 Pro

Everything you need in a utilities suite all accessed from a centralised console.  28 Mar 2002

Like this story? Spread the news by clicking below:

 del.icio.us     Digg this     reddit!