Yesterday, Symantec launched its new Norton 360 software, a solution that combines anti-virus, anti-spyware, firewall, intrusion protection, anti-phishing, backup and tune-up, eliminating the need to purchase and manage multiple products. Norton 360 is now available for purchase through the Symantec online store, here. A 'hard-copy' will be available for purchase at various retail locations and online retailers in March 2007. An optional add-on pack with Anti-Spam and Parental Controls will also be available to Norton 360 customers in mid-March, at no additional charge.

"People today use their computers for much more than work or storing documents. If you ask most computer users what they rely on their PC for, they'll tell you they use it to surf the web, bank online, shop, keep in touch with friends and family, listen to music and store their favorite photos," said Enrique Salem, group president, Consumer Business Unit, Symantec Corp. "Norton 360 was created with these activities in mind. It not only protects against traditional online threats, but it also helps secure users' identity when transacting online and safeguards valuable files like music and photos."

"With Norton 360, Symantec is rejuvenating its consumer product line," said Andrew Jaquith, senior analyst, Yankee Group. "By combining the traditional security features with data backup and performance tuning, products like Norton 360 will expand the market for consumer security and data protection solutions."

The suggested retail price of Norton 360 is US$79.99 (includes one-year service subscription to use the product and receive Symantec's protection updates) and can be installed on up to three PCs.