Here, we will compare McAfee vs Norton and show you the better option.
Computer viruses and malware attacks continue to menace the digital world. Such attacks occur multiple billions of times yearly, with numbers as high as eight billion and above.
If you’re not protecting your device against viruses and malware, you’re at the mercy of hackers and other cybercriminals. No one wants to be in such a position.
Therefore, you should scout for dependable antivirus software. If you’ve done that, you most likely will find McAfee and Norton as possible options.
Here at SecureBlitz, we confirm that both are reliable antivirus programs. Both appear in our list of best antivirus platforms for your computer.
However, if it comes to choosing one or the other, which is better? That’s what we’ll be covering in this post. Read on.
Table of Contents
What Is McAfee?
McAfee was the first commercial antivirus software, developed by John McAfee, the company’s founder, in 1987. To date, it remains as one of the popular antivirus software despite the current crowded market.
The McAfee software does more than fight computer viruses and malware. It also works as a firewall to protect devices from internal threats. In addition, it has anti-ransomware and anti-spyware functionalities, to name a few.
The software developers describe it as an all-in-one online privacy and security solution. One of the standout features of the software is the loss coverage. You can get up to $1 million compensation in identity fraud and theft cases if you’re on their highest plan.
With all of these, it’s no surprise that McAfee is globally renowned. The software records over 600 million installations, with over 42 million cyber threats neutralized per day.
What Is Norton?
Norton, also known as Norton 360, is a relatively simple antivirus software. The antivirus focuses on viruses, malware, and spyware removal online and offline.
To guarantee efficiency, Norton uses a state-of-the-art 9-point threat detection system. The system is notably fast and will remove viruses and malware even remotely.
Since its advent, Norton continues to amplify the bright side of the internet, free from cyber threats. While that is far-reaching, the software has established itself as a dependable antivirus with millions of users.
One of the reasons why Norton is famous is because the antivirus has dedicated programs. For example, you can opt for the Norton 360 for homes, small businesses, students, gamers, families, and more.
Furthermore, Norton places emphasis on browsing. Features like Safe Web, Safe Search, and Dark Web Monitoring ensure that you can use the internet without looking over your shoulder.
Norton also offers features like Norton Safe Web, Norton Identity Protection, and Norton Family to enhance your online security and protect you from online threats such as phishing, identity theft, and online fraud.
Norton also includes a built-in firewall, which can help to protect your computer from unauthorized access and hackers.
Additionally, Norton's Auto-Renewal feature ensures that your protection is always up-to-date and that you never have to worry about your subscription expiring.
Overall, Norton Antivirus provides a comprehensive and easy-to-use security solution that can help to protect your computer and personal information from a wide range of online threats.
With its powerful features and excellent customer support, Norton Antivirus is a great choice for anyone looking to safeguard their computer and personal information.
How To Get Started With McAfee Antivirus
Getting started with McAfee Antivirus is a simple process that can be completed in a few easy steps.
- First, you will need to purchase a McAfee Antivirus product. This can be done by visiting the McAfee website and selecting the product that best suits your needs. Once you have made your purchase, you will receive a confirmation email with a link to download the software.
- Next, you will need to download and install the software on your computer. You can do this by clicking on the link in the confirmation email. The installation process is straightforward and easy to follow.
- After installing the software, you will need to activate it. This can be done by entering the activation code that was provided in the confirmation email or by clicking on the “Activate” button in the software.
- After activating the software, you will need to set up a McAfee account. This can be done by visiting the McAfee website and creating an account. Once your account is set up, you will be able to manage your subscription, download updates, and access support.
- You will also need to update your antivirus software. McAfee Antivirus software updates automatically, but you can also check for updates manually. Updating your software ensures that you have the most recent virus definitions to protect your computer.
- Finally, you can set up and configure your McAfee Antivirus software. This includes setting up a schedule for scans, enabling real-time protection, and configuring which types of files to scan.
Once you've completed these steps, you'll be up and running with McAfee Antivirus. It's important to keep your software updated and to run regular scans to ensure that your computer stays protected against the latest threats.
If you run into any issues, McAfee offers excellent customer support to help you troubleshoot and resolve any problems.
How To Get Started With Norton Antivirus
Getting started with Norton Antivirus is a simple process that can be completed in a few easy steps.
- First, you should purchase a Norton Antivirus package. This can be done by visiting the Norton website and selecting the product that best suits your needs. Once you have made your purchase, you will receive a confirmation email with a link to download the software.
- Next, you will need to download and install the software on your computer. You can do this by visiting the Norton website and downloading the software directly. The installation process will vary depending on the product you have purchased, but it should be straightforward and easy to follow.
- Once the software is installed, you will need to activate it. This can be done by entering the activation code that was provided in the confirmation email or by clicking on the “Activate” button in the software.
- After activating the software, you will need to set up a Norton account. This can be done by visiting the Norton website and creating an account. Once your account is set up, you will be able to manage your subscription, download updates, and access support.
- You will also need to update your antivirus software. Norton Antivirus software updates automatically, but you can also check for updates manually. Updating your software ensures that you have the most recent virus definitions to protect your computer.
- Finally, you can set up and configure your Norton Antivirus software. This includes setting up a schedule for scans, enabling real-time protection, and configuring which types of files to scan.
Once you've completed these steps, you'll be up and running with Norton Antivirus. It's important to keep your software updated and to run regular scans to ensure that your computer stays protected against the latest threats.
If you run into any issues, Norton offers excellent customer support to help you troubleshoot and resolve any problems.
McAfee Vs Norton – Side-by-side Comparison
To get a crystal clear understanding of which is the better software between McAfee and Norton, here’s a detailed side-by-side comparison.
Virus and Malware Protection
McAfee
The McAfee antivirus ensures 24/7 protection from viruses, malware, and online threats. It can detect and remove these malicious elements from files and apps.
You’ll find the antivirus software easy to use, irrespective of the device you use. It takes only a few clicks to set it up and start protecting your device.
The antivirus is dependable as it has the highest rating from SE Labs. In addition, as mentioned earlier, it blocks up to 42 million threats daily.
Furthermore, the McAfee antivirus and malware removal software usually come with a VPN tool.
Norton
Norton antivirus and malware remover primarily works as an anti hacking tool. In other words, it focuses a lot on online protection, although the software has an exclusive web protection feature.
Notably, Norton also has a Secure VPN tool which makes it one of the best antivirus with VPN.
Norton offers users a 100 percent guarantee of removing viruses and malware. You can ask the company for your money back if the antivirus fails to protect your device.
The developers are sure their software works thanks to the unique machine learning technology it uses. In particular, it uncovers viruses and malware using a special emulation feature.
With the emulation feature, Norton tests every file coming into your PC to know how they react. From their reaction, the antivirus software will learn if they contain viruses or not.
Verdict
McAfee and Norton both have dependable antivirus systems. Nevertheless, it's a draw for this round.
Ransomware Protection
McAfee
McAfee employs special innovations to keep users free from ransomware. Among these innovations are remote browser isolation and unified cloud storage features.
These features will protect you from ransomware attacks that emanate from phishing links, user execution, and exfiltration.
Furthermore, you can rely on McAfee Endpoint Security and Adaptive Threat Protection to keep your devices free from fileless attacks.
McAfee keeps track of the latest ransomware trends and updates the software accordingly. You can also monitor the latest threats in the industry with MVISION Insights.
However, note that ransomware protection is an advanced feature. Hence, you may not access it from the basic antivirus and anti-malware plans.
Norton
Norton doesn’t provide complete ransomware protection. However, with carefulness and the Norton Security Premium software, you should be able to keep your devices free from Ransomware.
The software can protect you by issuing instant warnings whenever you intend to click on a malicious link or attachment.
If you do become a victim of a ransomware attack, you don’t have to pay the ransom. Norton securely backs up all your files so you can restore them in such situations.
With the Security Premium plan, you get up to 100 GB of cloud storage space to back up your files.
Verdict
Without debate, the better software is McAfee. McAfee has multiple innovations to tackle ransomware.
Web Protection
McAfee
McAfee’s web protection makes it possible for users to browse the internet confidently. It’s available as desktop software and a browser extension known as WebAdvisor.
The WebAdvisor software is easy to use, thanks to its intuitive design and lightweight size. It identifies harmful websites and blocks you from accessing them.
Furthermore, WebAdvisor sends you alerts whenever you visit the wrong URL of a popular website. It helps ensure you don’t visit scam parody sites.
Also, the WebAdvisor extension scans every file you download from the internet, ensuring they’re free from viruses and malware.
You can download and install the extension on Chrome, Firefox, and Edge browsers. It’s only available for Windows devices for desktops.
Norton
Norton offers a dependable internet security solution. As mentioned before, the antivirus focuses more on online protection. Therefore, you can browse the internet safely with any Norton Antivirus plan.
However, to get the most on web protection with Norton, you should go with the Norton 360 with LifeLock plans. These plans feature a Secure VPN.
The Secure VPN will protect you whenever you access the internet, from cyber threats and also local threats from public Wi-Fi.
Another notable aspect of Norton’s web protection capability is the PC SafeCam. The feature keeps your devices safe from remote webcam hijacking.
Verdict
Norton and McAfee are highly dependable when it comes to online protection. As a result, it’s a draw.
Identity Theft Protection
McAfee
McAfee features identify theft protection plans for individuals and families. You can depend on the plans to safeguard your digital life.
The features you get include identity monitoring, credit monitoring, credit score & report, security freeze, and personal data clean-up. But there’s more.
In particular, you’ll appreciate the $25 thousand ransomware coverage and $1 million identity theft coverage. Should anything go wrong, the identity restoration experts will ensure the loss is minimal.
McAfee has a team of licensed data restoration experts. You can count on them to fix your identity theft issues.
Furthermore, the personal data clean-up tool is worth highlighting. It’ll help wipe your personal data from broker and aggregator websites.
Norton
Norton offers identity protection under its Lifelock plans, and it approaches the issue in a simple way.
The software will send you alerts whenever it notices a possible identity theft scenario. These alerts can come as text messages, phone calls, or emails. If you have the Norton mobile app, you’ll also get notifications from it.
Suppose you fall victim to identity theft, the $1 million coverage will relieve most of the loss. Not to mention the software’s identity restoration specialists will work round the clock to restore the stolen data.
Verdict
McAfee offers more identity theft protection mediums than Norton, even though both offer large coverages.
Data Cleanup
McAfee
If you have your personal data on third-party broker websites, McAfee can help you get rid of them. The software does this using a Personal Data Cleanup tool.
The tool does three things – scan, remove, and monitor.
Hence, it first scans different data broker websites on the internet to locate your info. Secondly, it reviews the data to ensure they’re yours before erasing them.
You can contact the broker yourself to remove your data. Alternatively, you can ask McAfee to place the request on your behalf.
Once your data is off the broker websites, McAfee activates the data monitor. It’ll constantly watch the broker websites to ensure your data doesn’t reappear on them.
Norton
Norton performs data clean-up using a Privacy Monitor. The monitor primarily scans people-search websites to find your personal information, including name, phone number, and email.
These include popular websites like TrueFinder, Spokeo, PeopleFinders, PrivateEye, PublicRecords, PeopleLookup, and Instant Checkmate.
If your data is found on any of the websites, the tool can place a request, asking for them to remove your data. You can also place the request yourself after identifying the websites of the brokers.
The Norton Privacy Monitor works hand-in-hand with the Web Protection and Identity Theft Protection Tools.
Verdict
Norton’s Privacy Monitor and McAfee Personal Data Cleanup tool are more similar than different. Hence, both platforms share the crown.
Password Manager
McAfee
With McAfee password manager, you can rest assured that access to all your online accounts is safe. It not only stores your passwords but also helps generate strong passwords that are impossible to guess.
Interestingly, you won’t need to remember all the passwords or usernames. The password manager auto-fills the info whenever you want to log in.
You only need one master password to access the different passwords stored in the manager.
Furthermore, the password manager also works as an advisory service. It’ll inform you when you need to change your passwords or if your account is at risk of being breached.
Norton
Norton features a password manager and password generator. The password generator is available via the web, but the password manager is available as a software.
You can install it on Android or iOS on mobile. For desktop devices, you’ll settle with the browser extension. The extension is installable on Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and Safari.
The password manager tracks all your passwords, recording their strength and last changed date. The strength ranges from weak, duplicate, old, and archived.
You can change or auto-change passwords with a single click. Typically, you don’t need to remember all the passwords, but just a single master password.
Verdict
Again, there’s nothing to differentiate between McAfee and Norton. Both platforms come with reliable password managers.
Compatibility
McAfee
McAfee is natively compatible with the four major operating systems – Android, iOS, Windows, and Mac. In addition, the software goes further to support ChromeOS.
However, note that to use McAfee, you need the latest Windows OS versions. The software will only work on Windows 8 and recent versions. To get the best experience, you should use Windows 10 or 11.
Furthermore, you can only use McAfee antivirus on Mac if you’re on the Plus plan.
Aside from the apps, McAfee is compatible with different web browsers, including Firefox, Google Chrome, Safari, and Microsoft Edge.
Norton
You can install the Norton antivirus software on Android, iOS, Windows, or Max devices. The app is available on the app stores of these devices.
Notably, most Norton users are mobile, and on desktop, Windows take the lead. This is because the antivirus supports old versions of the Windows OS, including XP and Vista, although in maintenance mode.
However, note that you won’t get all Norton services in one app. For example, on iOS, Norton has different apps for the antivirus, VPN, and password manager.
Furthermore, note that you can’t install Norton on Chromebook, Huawei devices, and Amazon devices like Kindle and Firestick.
Verdict
McAfee takes the lead in this feature comparison due to its extra support for ChromeOS.
Customer Support
McAfee
McAfee customer support is reachable 24/7. You can contact them for technical assistance, refund requests, purchase and renewal issues, and others.
Notably, you can talk to a support representative in your preferred language. The service supports over 50 different languages.
If you don’t chat with a McAfee support representative, you can simply post on the McAfee community. From there, you can get help from other users.
You can also reach the McAfee customer support team on social media platforms, including Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube.
McAfee also provides reliable help resources. Among the available options are a help center, an FAQ page, a virtual assistant, and many How-tos.
Norton
You can reach Norton support easily by using the contact form. Otherwise, you can use the chat service or call the customer support line, which is available 24/7.
Aside from the above, you can source help on your own via the Norton Help Center. The help center covers all the key topics, including account management, device protection, and identity protection.
Furthermore, Norton has an expansive community of customers and product experts. You can post your issues in the community and get quick solutions.
Verdict
McAfee may have plentiful resources, but Norton leads here as the platform provides customer support via phone.
Norton Vs McAfee: Pricing
McAfee
McAfee pricing plans vary depending on the feature you want to use. Nevertheless, here’s a run down of the main pricing plans:
- Basic Plan: $29.99 for the first year
- Plus Plan: $39.99 for the first year
- McAfee + Premium Plan: $49.99 for the first year
- McAfee + Advanced Plan: $89.99 for the first year
Norton
To use Norton, you have four pricing plans to choose from. The plans include:
- Antivirus Plus Plan: $19.99 for the first year
- Standard Plan: $39.99 for the first year
- Deluxe Plan: $49.99 for the first year
- Premium Plan: $54.99 per year for the first year
Note: The pricing for either McAfee or Norton is subject to change.
McAfee Pros
- Affordable basic plan
- Dependable virus and malware protection
- Compatible with different Operating Systems
- Dependable ransomware protection
- Web protection and monitoring
- Built-in VPN tool
- Plentiful customer resources
- Complete data cleanup
McAfee Cons
- Sometimes flags off unharmful websites
- Relatively expensive
Norton Pros
- Easy-to-use interface
- Supports all major Operating Systems
- Dependable online protection
- Reliable privacy monitor and data cleanup
- Secure VPN with Plus Plan
- Identify theft coverage
- Phone, email, and chat support
Norton Cons
- Initial configuration may take time
McAfee Vs Norton: Similarities And Differences
McAfee and Norton are both well-known and reputable antivirus software providers that offer a range of security solutions to protect computers and mobile devices from various types of malware and online threats.
While both companies have a long history in the antivirus industry, there are some key similarities and differences between McAfee and Norton that are worth noting.
Similarities:
- Both McAfee and Norton offer a wide range of antivirus and internet security products that are designed to protect computers and mobile devices from malware, viruses, and online threats.
- Both companies provide regular software updates and threat definitions to ensure that their products are able to detect and remove the latest threats.
- Both McAfee and Norton offer customer support and technical assistance to help users troubleshoot and resolve any issues that may arise.
- Both Norton and McAfee provide additional features such as firewalls, parental controls, and identity protection to enhance the overall security of their products.
Differences:
- McAfee has a larger range of products and services, which includes many enterprise-level security solutions that are designed for businesses and large organizations. Norton, on the other hand, primarily focuses on consumer-level products.
- Norton has a better performance on independent lab tests, Norton scores higher than McAfee in terms of malware detection and system performance impact.
- McAfee offers a more comprehensive mobile security suite than Norton, including anti-theft and backup features.
- Norton has a more user-friendly interface, making it easier for users to navigate and configure the software.
- McAfee is slightly more expensive than Norton.
McAfee Vs Norton – Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between McAfee and Norton?
The main difference between McAfee and Norton is that McAfee has a larger range of products and services, which includes many enterprise-level security solutions that are designed for businesses and large organizations.
Norton, on the other hand, primarily focuses on consumer-level products. Additionally, Norton has a better performance on independent lab tests, Norton scores higher than McAfee in terms of malware detection and system performance impact.
Does McAfee or Norton offer better malware protection?
Both McAfee and Norton offer comprehensive and reliable malware protection. However, Norton has a better performance on independent lab tests, Norton scores higher than McAfee in terms of malware detection and system performance impact.
Which company has better customer support, McAfee or Norton?
Both McAfee and Norton offer customer support and technical assistance to help users troubleshoot and resolve any issues that may arise. However, some users have reported that Norton's customer support is more responsive and helpful than McAfee's.
Does McAfee or Norton have a more user-friendly interface?
Norton has a more user-friendly interface, making it easier for users to navigate and configure the software. McAfee's interface is more complex, but flexible and can be easily configured.
Does Norton or McAfee have more additional features?
Both McAfee and Norton offer additional features such as firewalls, parental controls, and identity protection to enhance the overall security of their products. However, McAfee offers a more comprehensive mobile security suite than Norton, including anti-theft and backup features.
Which company is more affordable, McAfee or Norton?
McAfee is slightly more expensive than Norton. However, both companies offer a range of pricing options, so it's worth checking both McAfee and Norton's websites to compare prices and find the best deal.
It's also worth noting that both companies often run special offers and discounts, so it's worth checking for those as well.
Can I use McAfee and Norton together on the same device?
It is not recommended to use two different antivirus programs on the same device as they may interfere with each other's processes and cause system conflicts. It's best to choose one antivirus program and stick with it.
Does McAfee or Norton have better VPN service?
As you can see from this Norton vs McAfee comparison, both McAfee and Norton offer VPN service as an additional feature. However, Norton's VPN service is considered to be more reliable and efficient as compared to McAfee's.
However, if you are looking for a dedicated VPN service, you may want to consider other VPN options as both McAfee and Norton VPN services are not as comprehensive as standalone VPN services.
McAfee Vs Norton – Which Is Better?
The debate about the better antivirus software between Norton and McAfee is a close one. Without mixing words, you won’t be making a wrong choice if you go for any of the two.
Notably, McAfee and Norton are both reliable and well-established antivirus solutions, each with their own unique features and strengths.
However, head-to-head, McAfee edges past Norton as it offers relatively more protection, especially against advanced threats.
In essence, when comparing McAfee and Norton, McAfee emerges as the clear winner. McAfee offers a wider range of products and services, including enterprise-level security solutions that are suitable for businesses and large organizations.
Additionally, McAfee has a more comprehensive mobile security suite, including anti-theft and backup features.
While Norton has better performance on independent lab tests and good customer support, McAfee's additional features and range of products make it more versatile and suitable for a wider range of users. With McAfee, you get more bang for your buck, making it the better choice.
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About the Author:
Gina Lynch is a VPN expert and online privacy advocate who stands for the right to online freedom. She is highly knowledgeable in the field of cybersecurity, with years of experience in researching and writing about the topic. Gina is a strong advocate of digital privacy and strives to educate the public on the importance of keeping their data secure and private. She has become a trusted expert in the field and continues to share her knowledge and advice to help others protect their online identities.
