Viruses, spybots and other malware can infect your business computer, stealing client information or just causing havoc. Anti-virus programs such as Norton help keep your computer malware-free, but this protection could be compromised if the software can't perform scans properly. Various factors can affect the program's ability to complete a system scan, such as problems within the program itself, or computer hardware and software issues.
Norton Issues
Improper installation, outdated threat definitions and corrupted program files can affect the way Norton operates, preventing it from completing assigned tasks properly. Make sure you're running the most up-to-date version of Norton, with all the latest virus and malware threat information downloaded. Run Norton's "LiveUpdate" until it reports no new updates to ensure you're current. Perform a manual scan, and if it still freezes, uninstall Norton and reinstall the software to ensure a proper installation of clean files. Norton's Remove and Reinstall Tool completely removes all Norton files and reinstalls the latest version of your software. Certain Norton programs, such as Norton Family or Norton Systemworks, require manual installation, once you remove all Norton files.
Advertisem*nt
Article continues below this ad
Software Problems
Your computer must be up-to-date and communicating with all installed components effectively to ensure proper functionality of installed programs. If your operating system and other drivers are older and outdated, they may be causing Norton to freeze as it attempts to scan the system. Update Windows and your system's drivers to the latest versions to encourage proper compatibility and communication.
Computer Overheating Troubles
In some cases, Norton may be freezing due to hardware problems with your computer. Overheating can affect the way your machine operates, usually causing freezes, crashes and other problems as the temperature climbs. Turn off your computer and open the side case to visually check your fans. If they are broken or caked with dust, they're not creating the proper air flow to vent the hot air the system creates during operation. Blocked air vents trap the heat inside, allowing temperatures to reach dangerous, component-killing levels. Replace broken, malfunctioning fans and clean the system with canned air to remove any built-up dust. If the system is more than a few years old, check the thermal paste sandwiched between your heat sink and CPU and replace it, if necessary. For laptops, use canned air to blow any internal dust or lint out through the air vents and prop the machine up to encourage proper air flow.
Advertisem*nt
Article continues below this ad
Malware Mayhem
The very thing Norton is trying to protect you against could be what's causing its freezing problems. Some malware programs attack installed anti-virus software, either turning it off entirely or causing freezes and crashes. If you suspect a malware attack, uninstall Norton and use a different program to scan for any nasty invaders. Various companies offer free versions of their anti-virus programs, including MalwareBytes, AVG and Avast. (See Resources.) You can't have two different anti-virus programs installed at once, so remove Norton before you install a new program. Run a scan and remove any malware present before attempting to reinstall Norton.
References
Advertisem*nt
Article continues below this ad
