Two AV programs at same time?

[smitty]

Probably a silly question, BUT . . .whatever.

Using XP Home on a brand new computer (Gateway): I have Norton AV and have
just downloaded Avast Home edition. Is there a problem with running both AV
programs at THE SAME TIME? Will there be any conflicts?
What do you think?

Thanks in advance for advice.

Smitty

 

[Lorne Smith]

Yes there are likely to be conflicts, and could result in virii not being
detected. You should not run multiple AV applications as once...

The same applies to firewall FWIW...

Lorne

 

[purplehaz]

There might be conflicts only time will tell, but it really isn't needed.
One av program that is updated regualrly will protect you fine. Two running
just uses more resources and could slow the computer.
I would not run two as IMHO two is not needed.

 

[John Dingley]

It is probably not a good idea to have two virus checkers running at the
same time. If you need 2, just disable one and then enable it (say once a
week) to do disk scans with the other disabled.

 

[Why]

Yes it's a silly question. Why I oughta.... no...I'm playing...not working
this week, and way too much time on my hands
Seriously though, the other posters are correct, it's not a good idea to
have two AV's running. And when you have to start PAYING for Norton, you
might want to consider using that Avast or AVG. They're both free and do a
pretty good job of protecting your system. I've heard that Norton can get
deep into your system, slow it down...and can be hard to un-install all its
files. I don't know this from experience because I use AVG. (
www.grisoft.com ) Why pay for something when you can get it for free? AVG
along with a firewall, and adaware has protected me for years.