What is Symantec/Norton AntiVirus software, and where can I get it?
Note: For information about Symantec's newer antivirus product, see What is Symantec Endpoint Protection?
Symantec/Norton AntiVirus (SAV for Windows, NAV for Mac OS X) is a virus protection program distributed by the Symantec Corporation, offering effective protection features, including infected file quarantine, online virus protection updates, and an automatic scheduler. SAV/NAV is designed to start running as soon as your computer's operating system starts. It runs in the background, checking all vulnerable files for possible infection by malevolent programs called viruses and worms. SAV/NAV does this by looking for the identifying signatures of these worms and viruses and comparing them to known viruses for which it has files. When it detects an infected file, it notifies you and manages the infection according to your preferences.
SAV/NAV software is available to Indiana University students, faculty, and staff free of cost via IUware.
To keep your antivirus software running effectively:
- Always run the latest version of SAV/NAV software for your
operating system, being sure to upgrade safely; see In Windows, how do I safely upgrade to the latest Symantec Endpoint or AntiVirus software?
- Automatically update your virus pattern files daily and scan your
computer weekly:
- Windows: In Symantec/Norton AntiVirus for Windows, how do I schedule automatic LiveUpdates and virus scans?
- Mac OS and OS X: In Symantec Endpoint Protection for Mac OS X, how do I schedule automatic LiveUpdates and virus scans?
SAV/NAV uses the LiveUpdate feature to update your virus pattern files to the newest version, and then uses these files to scan your computer for viruses.
Note: Be sure to have the latest SAV/NAV version installed, as older versions may not be able to use LiveUpdate in Windows. For other security reasons, UITS also recommends upgrading your operating system. See Recommended Windows operating systems at IU.
Additionally, local support providers (LSPs) can set up a Symantec Endpoint Protection Enterprise server to deploy Automated Virus Definitions to the computers they administer.
Last modified on April 06, 2010.
