Norton vs Webroot

Norton Antivirus, developed by Gen Digital Inc. (formerly Symantec Corporation), has been a trusted name in cybersecurity since 1991. Headquartered in Tempe, Arizona, Norton offers a comprehensive suite of security tools designed to protect users from malware, phishing attacks, ransomware, and online threats. Their services extend beyond basic antivirus protection, incorporating features like real-time threat detection, a smart firewall, a secure VPN, dark web monitoring, cloud backup, and identity theft protection. With multi-device compatibility, Norton provides security solutions for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS users. Independent security tests consistently rate Norton highly for their malware detection and overall performance, but user feedback is mixed. Customers appreciate their strong protection, ease of use, and frequent updates, while others criticize aggressive upselling, high renewal costs, and occasional performance slowdowns. Norton’s customer support includes 24/7 live chat, phone assistance, and an extensive knowledge base, though some users report difficulties with billing transparency and subscription management.

Webroot was founded in 1997 in Boulder, Colorado, and is now based in Broomfield. They specialize in lightweight, cloud-based cybersecurity tools designed to protect individuals, families, and businesses across devices. Their core features include real-time protection against malware, phishing, and ransomware, along with identity monitoring, password management, parental controls, and dark web scanning. Webroot’s antivirus runs quietly in the background without slowing down performance, which makes them a practical choice for both new and older systems, including Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and Chromebooks. They offer several plans: Essentials for basic protection, Premium for identity and credit monitoring, Total Protection for all-in-one coverage with VPN and backup, and Premium Family for up to 10 users. There’s also a dedicated plan for PC gamers that prioritizes speed and performance.