i really dont know much about computers but all i know is that i have just purchased a new laptop with free norton security however it is blocking nearly every website i try and go on on the internet! please give me some help as it is beginning to get very frustrating and seemingly pointless that i bought this laptop.

amy rooney, November 2007

Hi,

Generally those Norton programs are done on a trail basis, so by the time you have configured it just the way you like it, the trail then ends after 90 days. Lovely.

Presuming your on XP with Service Pack 2 (this can be checked by right clicking on My Computer and selecting properties) then they have a built in firewall which can be accessed and activated by the control panel. However I would recommend that you uninstall Norton first to avoid a conflict of interests.

If, like many others, dont particularly trust windows to protect the private parts of your laptop, then Zone Alarm is pretty good at keeping nasties out. This is a free software for home use, but do make sure you select the free one rather than the trail one.

Next providing that the anti-virus is bundled in with Norton (which will also expire) you will need a solution for this also. I would recommend either AVG or Avast Home Edition; which should be easy enough to come by if you google it. The other advantage is these programs are free for home use only.

Hope this helps

Urban Kaos, November 2007