Internet security/anitvirus for a Netbook

[OneHandFlapping]

We've always used Norton, but I know it's resource hungry. I've just bought a little netbook, which is lovely, but a bit slow. I'm afraid if I put Norton on it, it might kill it.

Has anyone got any other recommendations?

[niceguy2]

The latest version of Norton is not supposed to be that resource hungry. That said there really is no need to pay for antivirus for a home computer anymore. There are many free alternatives out there now.

Personally I like Microsoft Security Essentials because it just gets on with the job in the background without constantly nagging me to upgrade. There are others but I've always found MSE to be fairly unobtrusive and not overly resource hungry. Works fine on all the computers I use, even the older ones.

[OneHandFlapping]

Actually on further investigation, I found it comes with a copy of Trend Micro Titanium - seomthing I've never heard of.

I'll look up MSE as well.

Thanks, NiceGuy

[Chanatan]

What operating system does your Netbook use?if its windows 8,then windows defender(new name for Microsoft Security Essentials) is already installed and you wont need any extra virus protection.If its windows7 then I wouls second MSE as well,its never let us down.

[NetworkGuy]

Trend Micro, Kaspersky, Norton, McAfee, etc... (Dr Soloman from early 90s)

Many do a deal to have the free trialon machines as lots will 'cough up' without looking for cheaper or free alternatives.

[Longdistance]

Do not go for Norton. It sucked the life out of my netbook. It takes forever to do anything.

[OneHandFlapping]

Thanks for some more ideas - and the warning, Longdistance

[EatenByZombies]

AVG is relatively non-resource-sucking apart from during scans when it (obviously) uses more power.
Be warned that the free version does not come with a firewall though, last time I checked, only basic virus protection.