Norton Small Business - Detailed Review

Security Tools

Norton Small Business - Detailed Review Contents
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    Norton Small Business - Product Overview



    Introduction to Norton Small Business

    Norton Small Business is a comprehensive cybersecurity solution specifically crafted for the unique needs of small businesses, particularly those with limited or no IT support. This product is part of Norton’s portfolio, leveraging decades of experience in cybersecurity to protect business devices and customer data.



    Primary Function

    The primary function of Norton Small Business is to provide all-in-one cybersecurity protection. It offers 24/7 antivirus and firewall protection, ensuring that business devices, online activities, and critical customer data are safeguarded against various cyber threats, including phishing attacks, which are increasingly common and sophisticated.



    Target Audience

    The target audience for Norton Small Business includes:
    • Very Small Businesses (VSBs) with no IT department, typically having 2-10 employees.
    • Sole traders and small office/home office (SOHO) setups.
    • Small businesses with 11-20 employees that occasionally outsource IT tasks.



    Key Features



    Core Security

    • Antivirus and Firewall: Provides real-time protection against malware and other cyber threats.
    • Secure Browser: Enhances browser security to prevent online threats.
    • Password Manager: Helps manage and secure passwords.
    • Webcam Protection: Safeguards against unauthorized webcam access.



    Additional Protection

    • VPN: Offers unlimited VPN access for secure browsing on public networks.
    • Cloud Backup: Includes 250GB or 500GB of cloud storage for backing up critical data, depending on the plan.
    • Software Updater and PC Cleanup/Speedup: Automates software updates and optimizes PC performance to keep devices running efficiently.



    Monitoring and Support

    • Dark Web Monitoring: Alerts users if their personal or business data appears on the dark web.
    • Financial and Social Media Monitoring: Provides alerts for suspicious financial transactions and monitors social media accounts for malicious activities.
    • 24/7 Business Tech Support: Offers round-the-clock IT support for common issues, virus removal, and product guidance.



    Ease of Use

    Norton Small Business is designed to be easy to install and use, even for those without extensive cybersecurity knowledge. It runs seamlessly in the background on Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices, allowing business owners to focus on their operations without worrying about cybersecurity.

    This solution effectively acts as a personal IT department for small businesses, simplifying cybersecurity and providing the necessary tools to protect against modern cyber threats.

    Norton Small Business - User Interface and Experience



    User Interface

    The user interface of Norton Small Business is designed to be user-friendly and intuitive, making it accessible even for those without extensive IT or cybersecurity knowledge.

    Ease of Use

    Norton Small Business is easy to install and manage. The software runs seamlessly in the background, allowing you to focus on your business operations without interruptions. The installation process is straightforward, and you can set up new devices quickly by sending an email from the admin console to the new device.

    User Interface

    The admin console of Norton Small Business provides a centralized management system where you can oversee the security of all your company’s devices from a single place. This console offers a clear overview of your in-house security specifications, making it easy to monitor and manage device security. The interface is user-friendly, allowing you to easily set up new devices and manage existing ones without needing advanced technical skills.

    Features and Tools

    The software includes a range of tools that are easy to use, such as real-time problem solutions, cloud backup (though not supported on all platforms like MacOS and iOS), and a VPN. These features help protect your devices from various threats, including phishing, malware, and ransomware, without interfering with your work hours.

    Performance

    Norton Small Business ensures constant protection without causing significant lag or disruptions to your work. The software receives frequent updates to keep your devices secure against the latest threats, and it has been shown to detect and block various types of malware effectively in independent tests.

    Conclusion

    Overall, the user interface of Norton Small Business is designed to be simple, efficient, and easy to manage, making it an excellent choice for small businesses looking to secure their devices and data without requiring specialized IT knowledge.

    Norton Small Business - Key Features and Functionality



    Norton Small Business Premium Overview

    Norton Small Business Premium is a comprehensive cybersecurity solution specifically crafted for small businesses and entrepreneurs, integrating several key features and leveraging AI technology to provide robust protection.



    24/7 Business Tech Support

    This feature offers round-the-clock remote IT support for your devices, network, and software. Norton experts are available 24/7 to assist with any technical issues, ensuring minimal downtime and continuous business operations.



    Financial Monitoring

    Norton Small Business Premium includes financial monitoring that alerts you to suspicious transactions on your company’s bank accounts. This allows you to act quickly in case of potential fraud, protecting your financial assets.



    Social Media Monitoring

    This feature prevents your business social media profiles from being compromised by regularly monitoring for suspicious activities. It helps protect your online presence and reputation by detecting and alerting you to any unauthorized access or malicious activities on your social media accounts.



    Device Security

    The solution provides real-time antivirus protection to safeguard your devices from malware, viruses, and other cyber threats. Additionally, it includes a firewall that blocks cybercriminals from accessing your network, ensuring your devices and data remain secure.



    Secure VPN

    Norton Small Business Premium offers a secure VPN with bank-grade encryption, allowing you to work online and access websites safely, whether at home or on the go. This feature enhances your online security and privacy.



    Password Manager

    The built-in password manager generates strong passwords, updates them automatically with AutoChange, and allows you to access your password vault using biometrics. This helps maintain strong password hygiene and simplifies password management.



    Cloud Backup

    The solution includes cloud backup features, ensuring your important data is safely stored and can be easily recovered in case of a data loss event. This feature helps in maintaining business continuity by protecting critical business data.



    Performance Enhancements

    Norton Small Business Premium also includes performance enhancements to keep your devices running smoothly and efficiently. This ensures that the security software does not slow down your business operations.



    AI Integration

    While the specific product details do not elaborate extensively on AI integration within Norton Small Business Premium, it is worth noting that Norton generally leverages AI in its security products. For example, in other contexts, Norton uses AI-powered scam detection, such as analyzing audio streams to detect AI-generated deepfakes and monitoring websites for brand impersonation scams. This technology, though not explicitly mentioned for the Small Business Premium, reflects Norton’s broader approach to using AI for enhanced security.



    Multi-Device Coverage

    The plans are flexible, offering coverage for 6, 10, or 20 devices, making it suitable for businesses of varying sizes. This flexibility ensures that all your business devices, whether Windows, Mac, Android, or iOS, are protected under a single plan.



    Ease of Use

    Norton Small Business Premium is designed to be easy to install and use, even for those without extensive IT or cybersecurity knowledge. It runs seamlessly in the background, allowing you to focus on your business without interruptions.



    Conclusion

    In summary, Norton Small Business Premium combines essential security features with AI-driven technologies to provide a comprehensive and user-friendly cybersecurity solution tailored for the needs of small businesses.

    Norton Small Business - Performance and Accuracy



    Performance

    Norton Small Business is engineered to provide comprehensive cybersecurity protection with minimal impact on system performance. Here are some highlights:

    Key Features

    • The solution offers 24/7 antivirus protection, which includes real-time threat detection and mitigation, ensuring that your business devices and data are constantly safeguarded.
    • It incorporates advanced AI capabilities, similar to those in Norton 360, such as an Intrusion Prevention System (IPS) and behavioral protection. These features analyze incoming traffic and application behavior to block potential threats before they can cause harm.
    • The product includes a range of features like a secure browser, password manager, VPN, and automated PC cleaning and optimization, all of which run seamlessly in the background, allowing business owners to focus on their operations without significant performance overhead.


    Accuracy

    The accuracy of Norton Small Business is bolstered by its advanced AI-driven security tools:

    Threat Detection

    • The AI capabilities help in detecting and mitigating threats that might evade traditional security measures. For instance, the advanced machine learning algorithms can analyze files before allowing them to enter the system, significantly reducing the risk of malware infections.
    • The solution is particularly effective against phishing attacks, which are a major threat to small businesses. According to Norton’s research, scams and phishing attacks make up 82% of online threats facing UK small businesses, and Norton Small Business is specifically designed to address these challenges.


    Limitations and Areas for Improvement

    While Norton Small Business offers strong protection, there are some areas where it could be improved:

    User Experience and Notifications

    • User Experience and Notifications: Some users have reported that the constant notifications urging them to buy additional services can be overwhelming. Simplifying the user experience and providing clearer, more informative notifications without upsell pitches would enhance user satisfaction.
    • Cost and Value: The pricing of Norton Small Business, which starts at $59.99 for the first year and renews at $119.99 per year, might be a concern for some small businesses. Improving the cost-effectiveness or including more essential features in the base license could make the product more appealing.
    • Compatibility and Feature Availability: Some features, such as cloud backup and SafeCam, are not supported on all devices and platforms (e.g., MacOS, Windows in S mode, Windows running on ARM processors). Ensuring broader compatibility could enhance the product’s value for a wider range of users.
    Overall, Norton Small Business demonstrates strong performance and accuracy in protecting small businesses from cyber threats, particularly phishing and other scams. However, there is room for improvement in terms of user experience, cost, and feature availability across different platforms.

    Norton Small Business - Pricing and Plans



    Pricing



    Initial Year Cost

  • The initial year of Norton Small Business costs $199.99, which covers 2 devices per user. This is a discounted rate compared to the renewal price of $299.99 per year.


  • Subscription Renewal

  • After the initial year, the subscription automatically renews at $299.99 per year unless canceled.


  • 30-Day Free Trial

  • There is also a 30-day free trial available, after which the paid subscription starts at $59.99 for the first year and automatically renews at $119.99 per year unless canceled.


  • Features

  • Norton Small Business offers comprehensive cybersecurity features including real-time threat detection, automatic updates, and customizable security settings.
  • It provides protection against malware, ransomware, and phishing attacks.
  • The software includes tools for device protection, data encryption, and secure browsing.
  • It supports multi-device coverage for desktops, laptops, and mobile devices, making it suitable for businesses with hybrid work environments.


  • Device Compatibility

  • The software is compatible with various operating systems:


  • Windows

  • Windows 11, 10, 8, 8.1, and 7 (with specific version requirements).


  • Mac

  • Mac OS X 10.10.x or later (though some features like Cloud Backup and SafeCam are not supported on MacOS).


  • Android

  • Android 10.0 or later (with some features not supported).


  • Free Trial

  • A 30-day free trial is available, allowing businesses to test the full features of Norton Small Business before committing to a paid subscription.


  • Overall Package

  • There are no multiple tiers or different plans mentioned for Norton Small Business; it appears to be a single comprehensive package with the option for a free trial before purchasing.
  • Norton Small Business - Integration and Compatibility



    Norton Small Business Premium Overview

    Norton Small Business Premium is a comprehensive cybersecurity solution that integrates seamlessly with various devices and platforms, making it a versatile option for small businesses.

    Platform Compatibility

    Norton Small Business Premium is compatible with a wide range of operating systems, including:

    Windows

    • Windows: It supports Microsoft Windows 11, 10 (all versions except those in S mode, Mixed Reality, Mobile, IoT, Starter, and RT editions), Windows 8/8.1, and Windows 7 (32-bit and 64-bit) with Service Pack 1 (SP 1) or later.


    Mac

    • Mac: It is compatible with macOS 12.x (Monterey), macOS 11.x (Big Sur), and macOS 10.15.x (Catalina) or later. However, features like Cloud Backup and SafeCam are not supported on macOS.


    Android

    • Android: It works on Android 10.0 or later, provided the Google Play app is installed. It also supports ColorOS 7.1 or later. Features such as Cloud Backup, SafeCam, and Firewall are not available on Android devices.


    iOS

    • iOS: It is compatible with the current and previous two versions of Apple iOS for iPhones and iPads. However, Cloud Backup, SafeCam, and Firewall are not supported on iOS devices.


    Feature Integration

    The product integrates several key features to provide comprehensive security:
    • 24/7 Business Tech Support: Users have access to Norton experts for remote IT support on their devices, network, and software.
    • Secure VPN: Provides bank-grade VPN encryption for safe online access on Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices.
    • Device Security: Includes real-time antivirus protection and a firewall to block cybercriminals from accessing the network.
    • Financial Monitoring: Alerts users to suspicious transactions on their company’s bank accounts.
    • Social Media Monitoring: Regularly monitors business social media profiles for suspicious activities.
    • Password Manager: Helps manage passwords securely across different devices.
    • Cloud Backup: Offers cloud backup with encryption and authentication, though this feature is not supported on macOS, Android, or iOS devices.


    Ease of Use and Deployment

    Norton Small Business Premium is designed to be easy to install and use, even for those without IT or cybersecurity expertise. It runs seamlessly in the background, allowing businesses to focus on their operations without disruptions.

    Additional Considerations

    While the product offers extensive compatibility and feature integration, there are some limitations:
    • Some features, like Cloud Backup and SafeCam, are not available on all platforms.
    • The product may not be compatible with certain Windows versions, such as those running on ARM processors or in S mode.
    Overall, Norton Small Business Premium provides a comprehensive and user-friendly cybersecurity solution that integrates well across various devices and platforms, making it a solid choice for small businesses looking to protect their digital assets.

    Norton Small Business - Customer Support and Resources



    Customer Support

    Norton offers 24/7 customer support, which is crucial for small businesses that may not have dedicated IT teams. You can reach out to Norton’s Customer Care through various channels:

    • Phone Support: Existing Hughesnet customers can call Customer Care at 866-347-3292 to get assistance with their Norton Small Business service.
    • Online Support: You can also log into your online account at myhughesnet.com or visit the official Norton support page for help with installation, activation, sales, and billing.


    Additional Resources

    Norton provides several resources to help you manage and utilize your Norton Small Business subscription:

    • Installation Guide: After ordering, you will receive an email with a URL to guide you through the installation process. You can also view the installation User Guide directly.
    • System Requirements: Detailed system requirements for Norton Small Business can be found on the Norton support website, ensuring your devices meet the necessary criteria.
    • FAQs and Support Articles: Norton’s support site includes FAQs and detailed articles that address common questions and issues related to the Norton 360 app and other features of Norton Small Business.
    • On-Demand IT Help: Norton offers an Ultimate Help Desk service, providing on-demand IT help for issues such as PC performance, home network setup, email account access, and data restoration.


    Product Features and Tools

    In addition to support, Norton Small Business includes a range of tools to simplify cybersecurity management:

    • Secure Browser, Password Manager, and VPN: These tools help protect your online activities, devices, and customer data.
    • Automated PC Cleaning and Optimization: This feature helps maintain your devices’ performance and security.

    By leveraging these support options and resources, you can ensure that your small business remains protected and runs smoothly without the need for extensive IT expertise.

    Norton Small Business - Pros and Cons



    Advantages



    Comprehensive Protection

    Norton Small Business offers extensive protection against a wide range of digital threats, including viruses, malware, ransomware, and phishing attacks. It includes real-time antivirus protection, a firewall, and identity protection, ensuring your business data and online activities are well-secured.



    24/7 Business Tech Support

    The service provides round-the-clock technical support, which is invaluable for small businesses that may not have dedicated IT staff. This support is available for devices, networks, and software.



    Additional Security Features

    The package includes financial monitoring, social media monitoring, and device security features. Financial monitoring alerts you to suspicious transactions, while social media monitoring helps prevent your business profiles from being compromised.



    Secure VPN and Cloud Backup

    Norton Small Business includes a secure VPN for safe internet browsing and cloud backup services to protect your important data from threats like ransomware or hardware failure.



    Performance Efficiency

    The software is engineered to run in the background without causing significant disruptions to your device’s performance. This ensures that your business operations can continue smoothly without any lag or slowdown.



    Multi-Device Coverage

    Plans are available for coverage of 6, 10, or 20 devices, making it flexible for businesses of different sizes. The solution supports Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices.



    Disadvantages



    Pricing

    The cost of Norton Small Business Premium can be a significant factor, especially for budget-conscious small businesses. Plans start at $299.99 per year, which may be higher than some competitors.



    Device Optimization and Android Integration

    There is room for improvement in device optimization and Android integration. Some users have noted that these areas could be enhanced for better performance.



    Update Frequency

    Some users have reported that updates are too frequent, which can be intrusive to ongoing activities.



    System Resource Usage

    While generally efficient, Norton can still impact system resources, particularly on older or less powerful devices. This might result in reduced system performance for some users.

    Overall, Norton Small Business offers a comprehensive cybersecurity solution with strong support and features, but it comes with a higher price tag and some areas that need improvement.

    Norton Small Business - Comparison with Competitors



    Unique Features of Norton Small Business

    • Norton Small Business offers comprehensive cybersecurity protection, including real-time threat detection, automatic updates, and customizable security settings. This allows businesses to protect their devices from malware, ransomware, and phishing attacks.
    • It provides multi-device support, covering desktops, laptops, and mobile devices, making it suitable for hybrid work environments.
    • The software includes tools for device protection, data encryption, and secure browsing, ensuring sensitive information remains safe. It also features an intuitive dashboard for monitoring security status and managing policies remotely.


    Alternatives and Comparisons



    Vectra AI

    • Vectra AI stands out for its hybrid attack detection and response capabilities. It uses patented Attack Signal Intelligence to detect suspicious behaviors, even customized malware or zero-day attacks, across public cloud, SaaS applications, identity systems, and enterprise networks. Vectra AI is particularly strong in reducing false positives and providing 24/7 threat monitoring.
    • Unlike Norton Small Business, Vectra AI is more focused on advanced threat detection and response, making it a better choice for organizations needing deep behavioral analysis and automated threat correlation.


    SentinelOne

    • SentinelOne is known for its advanced threat-hunting and incident response capabilities. It offers fully autonomous cybersecurity powered by AI, which can automatically detect, prevent, and respond to threats. SentinelOne is priced at $69.99 per endpoint and is highly regarded for its cost and customer support.
    • While Norton Small Business provides a broad range of security features, SentinelOne is more specialized in endpoint security and advanced threat hunting, making it a better option for businesses that need intense endpoint protection.


    CrowdStrike

    • CrowdStrike provides a cloud-native endpoint protection platform that stops breaches. It is best for monitoring user endpoint behavior and is highly effective in detecting and preventing threats. However, it is priced at $59.99 per device and has a higher complexity level compared to Norton Small Business.
    • CrowdStrike is a strong alternative if your business requires continuous monitoring of user endpoint behavior, but it may be more expensive and complex to implement.


    Balbix

    • Balbix is an AI-based security solution that provides unmatched visibility into the attack surface and security vulnerabilities. It quantifies cyber risk using AI and predictive analytics, enabling risk-based decision-making. Balbix is particularly useful for CISOs to demonstrate the effectiveness of security programs to boards and executives.
    • Unlike Norton Small Business, Balbix focuses more on quantifying cyber risk and providing a unified cyber risk posture view, making it a better choice for organizations that need to prioritize and mitigate risks based on financial impact.


    Pricing and ROI

    • Norton Small Business is slightly more expensive than some competitors, such as Trend Micro Smart Protection, but it is considered worth the investment due to its robust features and multi-device support.
    • In contrast, solutions like SentinelOne and CrowdStrike have clear pricing models, but they may be more expensive on a per-device basis. Vectra AI and other advanced tools often require custom pricing quotes, which can be more costly but offer highly specialized capabilities.

    In summary, while Norton Small Business offers a comprehensive suite of security features suitable for small businesses with hybrid work environments, alternatives like Vectra AI, SentinelOne, CrowdStrike, and Balbix provide more specialized and advanced AI-driven security solutions that may better fit the specific needs of larger or more complex organizations.

    Norton Small Business - Frequently Asked Questions

    Here are some frequently asked questions about Norton Small Business, along with detailed responses to each:

    How do I activate my Norton Small Business product?

    To activate your Norton Small Business product, follow these steps:
    • Open the “Thank you for ordering Hughesnet Optional Services” email from “…mailfromHughes.com” after placing your order.
    • Click the provided URL.
    • Create or log in to a Norton Account.
    • Click “Agree & Download”.
    • Follow the browser instructions to open the installer, and then follow the installer instructions to complete the installation.


    Can I cancel my Norton Small Business service at any time?

    Yes, you can cancel your Norton Small Business service at any time. There is no contract commitment, so you have the flexibility to cancel without any long-term obligations.

    How much does Norton Small Business cost?

    The pricing for Norton Small Business varies depending on the plan you choose. You can select plans that cover 5, 10, or in the case of Norton Small Business Premium, 6, 10, or 20 devices. The Premium plans start at $299.99 per year. For specific pricing details, you can visit the Norton page under “Shop” at myhughesnet.com or check the official Norton website.

    What are the system requirements for Norton Small Business?

    Norton Small Business supports various operating systems, including:
    • Windows: Windows 11, 10, 8, 8.1, and 7 (with Service Pack 1 or later).
    • Mac: Mac OS X 10.10.x or later.
    • Android: Android 10.0 or later with Google Play app installed.
    • iOS: Current and previous two versions of Apple iOS.
    For detailed system requirements, you can refer to the official Norton support page.

    How many devices can I cover with my Norton Small Business service?

    You can choose between different plan options that cover various numbers of devices. The standard plans offer coverage for 5 or 10 devices, while the Norton Small Business Premium plans cover 6, 10, or 20 devices.

    What features does Norton Small Business offer?

    Norton Small Business provides a range of features to protect your business, including:
    • Real-time antivirus protection
    • Secure VPN
    • Password manager
    • Cloud backup
    • Performance enhancements
    • 24/7 Business Tech Support
    • Financial Monitoring
    • Social Media Monitoring
    • Device security with firewall protection
    • Secure browser and automated PC cleaning and optimization.


    Is Norton Small Business easy to use, or do I need IT expertise?

    Norton Small Business is designed to be easy to use and does not require IT specialist knowledge. It is simple to install and runs seamlessly in the background, allowing you to focus on your business without slowing down operations.

    Can I upgrade from Norton Security Online to Norton Small Business?

    If you are a current Hughesnet customer with Norton Security Online, you can upgrade to Norton Small Business by logging into your online account at myhughesnet.com or by calling Customer Care at 866-347-3292.

    Does Norton Small Business offer a free trial?

    Yes, Norton Small Business offers a 30-day free trial. After the trial period, the subscription starts at $59.99 for the first year and automatically renews at $119.99 per year unless canceled.

    What kind of support does Norton Small Business provide?

    Norton Small Business includes 24/7 Business Tech Support, which means you have access to Norton experts available around the clock for remote IT support on your devices, network, and software.

    Norton Small Business - Conclusion and Recommendation



    Final Assessment of Norton Small Business in the Security Tools AI-driven Product Category

    Norton Small Business is a comprehensive cybersecurity solution that caters specifically to the needs of small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs). Here’s a detailed assessment of who would benefit most from using it and an overall recommendation.

    Target Audience

    Norton Small Business is ideal for entrepreneurs and small business owners who lack the resources and expertise to manage their own cybersecurity. Given that nearly 90% of global businesses are SMBs, and many of these lack dedicated IT support, this solution fills a critical gap. It is particularly beneficial for businesses with fewer than 10 employees, as they are often more vulnerable to cyberattacks due to limited IT resources.

    Key Features

    This all-in-one cybersecurity solution offers a range of features that make it an excellent choice for SMBs:
    • 24/7 Antivirus Protection: Continuous protection against malware and other cyber threats.
    • Secure Browsing: Ensures safe browsing by identifying and blocking malicious websites.
    • Password Manager: Helps manage and secure passwords, reducing the risk of password-related breaches.
    • Virtual Private Network (VPN): Provides secure internet browsing by encrypting data.
    • Automated PC Cleaning and Optimization: Keeps devices healthy and optimized.
    • Secure Cloud Backup: Protects business data from loss due to ransomware or other threats.
    • Software and Driver Updaters: Keeps software up-to-date to minimize vulnerabilities.


    AI-Driven Scam Detection

    Norton’s collaboration with Qualcomm to integrate Neural Processing Units (NPUs) with AI-powered scam detection is a significant advantage. This technology enables fast and accurate detection of deepfakes and scams, including brand impersonation and phishing attacks, directly on the device without transmitting data off-site. This ensures that SMBs can stay ahead of sophisticated cyber threats.

    Practical Benefits

    • Simplified Cybersecurity: Norton Small Business acts as a personal IT department, providing 24/7 protection and simplifying cybersecurity management for businesses that cannot afford dedicated IT staff.
    • Cost-Effective: Pricing starts at £39.99/year for a 5-device plan, making it an affordable solution for SMBs. The cost is justified by the comprehensive protection it offers against costly cyber threats.


    Recommendation

    Given the comprehensive features, AI-driven scam detection, and the specific needs of SMBs, Norton Small Business is highly recommended. It offers a balanced mix of security, ease of use, and affordability, making it an excellent choice for small businesses looking to protect their online activities, devices, and critical customer data. For businesses that are vulnerable to phishing and other cyber threats due to limited resources, Norton Small Business provides the necessary protection to ensure their financial and operational security.

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