Anti virus and spywear?????

Go to download.com, there are a number to choose from. I use AVG free edition for AV, and there are also free versions of Ad-aware and other anti-spy ware.

 

i use avg also never had problems http://free.avg.com/us-en/homepage

 

I've also used AVG before.  I've since switched to Avast Free Antivirus and I know 6 others using it with no problems at all.  I download anything I use from Cnet.com...you can also check reviews on various programs there.
I use Malwarebytes, Ad-aware (make sure it's spelled Ad-aware.  There is another one that's spelled adware or something like that and it's not safe) and Spybot and all are free.   Another good program is CCleaner (it used to be called Crap Cleaner..haha) 
Just uninstalling Norton won't remove it all.  Go to their site and download the Norton Removal Tool.

 

Another option would be security essentials from microsoft. I used to use AVG, but it has seemed to get pretty bloated as of late and it has missed a couple things. Security essentials is free and has proved pretty reliable as well (i like it even though i hate to admit i like anything microsoft)

 

I also use security essentials and have been very happy with it. I do believe that it is restricted to Windows 7 users.

 

Security essentials works with any OS that is XP or later...

 

My computer just got hit with a ransom ware - anyone else having that difficulty and do the above mentioned programs take care of them?

 

+1 for security essentials... nobody knows Windows better than Microsoft, so no mis-identifying files AS virus's... /DesktopModules/ActiveForums/themes/_default//emoticons/biggrin.gif
Used to use the free Avast, that was awesome too, but SE seems slimmer.
/shrug

 

I also use Security Essentials on some of my machines...bloated Norton on the others.

--AJ