Norton SystemWorks 2004 & Norton SystemWorks Professional 2004 Screenshots The Final Say! Value 9.0 Norton SystemWorks 2004 & Norton SystemWorks Professional 2004  - reviewed by Andrew B Review Date: 2004 Review Score: 9.0/10  Distributor: Symantec

"Once again Symantec ensures that their latest version of Norton SystemWorks is the only program on the market that offers not only the best anti-virus protection but also the most advanced problem solving solutions in ensuring that your PC's performance is optimal!" Norton SystemWorks 2004 and Norton SystemWorks Professional 2004 are the latest incarnations of one of the world's most powerful problem-solving applications on the personal computer. Apart from solving various computer problems, these applications also perform a variety of other important features such as virus protection and even helping users improve their PC performance. As with the previous versions of this powerful software application, both editions contain a very precise and in-depth manual that gives the user a complete run down of all the features of Norton SystemWorks. The installation process of SystemWorks is a relatively straightforward process but I must admit it was a fairly time consuming process but this is because SystemWorks really gets right into the operating system of Windows, thus ensuring that every facet of protection, problem-solving and performance is thoroughly addressed. Once the installation was completed, a reboot was required and once the reboot was finished, I was then ready to test this amazing software package. It should also be noted that all the new versions of Norton SystemWorks now require the user to enter an activation code (similar to Windows XP) within 15 days of installing the software package. If the user fails to enter this code, the program will cease to operate. This new feature is a great addition from Symantec and ensures that this program cannot be pirated. Before continuing this review, I will give you a rundown of what each version of Norton SystemWorks contains. SystemWorks 2004 Professional * Norton AntiVirus * Norton Utilties * Norton Password Manager * Norton GoBack Personal Edition * Norton CleanSweep * Norton Ghost SystemWorks 2004 * Norton AntiVirus * Norton Utilties * Norton Password Manager * Norton GoBack Personal Edition * Norton CleanSweep

The main difference between the standard edition and the professional version is that Norton SystemWorks Professional 2004 also comes with the full version of NortonGhost which itself is valued at over $100. A bonus to those thinking of purchasing the professional version of the program. As to the interface, thankfully Symantec have kept the original interface of SystemWorks 2003 so that repeat users will have no trouble finding where everything is located in the program. The interface is also extremely easy to navigate so that first time users will have no difficulty in mastering this program. As per usual, Norton SystemWorks (depending on your setting) runs quietly in the background of the computer.

After SystemWorks was installed, it automatically logged onto the internet to retrieve the latest patches and upgrades of the program, I allowed the program to run a full diagnostic of my system that basically scanned my entire computer for problems and maintenance issues. Norton WinDoctor found a plethora of problematic issues on my computer, noticeable over 50 different issues, some minor (invalid links) and a few major (bad registry links). Norton AntiVirus 2004 also scanned my entire system and thankfully found no viruses. Another new additional of Norton AntiVirus 2004 is the ability to detect various "spyware" programs on your computer that automatically eliminates them.

When you run the main program (SystemWorks), you are greeted to an extremely user friendly interface that gives you access to all facets of the program that include Norton Utilities (optimise your PC's performance), Norton AntiVirus, Norton CleanSweep (uninstall programs, cleanup your hard drive and web files), GoBack (roll back your system in case an error occurs), Norton Password Manager (manage all your internet and computer passwords) and Norton Ghost (Professional version only) which is one of the most powerful backup systems on the market at the moment.

One of the most noticeable features of the new version of this program is the additional of the new Norton Password Manager that is brilliant for managing all your internet or computer passwords. Norton automatically memorises your passwords when you go to input your password, so once they have been inputed, you will no longer need to find those scraps of paper with your personal details. The passwords are also protected in true 128-bit protection so it is impossible for anyone to retrieve your personal information.

In conclusion, Norton SystemWorks 2004 or Norton SystemWorks Professional 2004 is a must have program to all computer users that not only offers the best antivirus protection available but also contains a variety of useful problem-solving and maintenance applications such as GoBack (that allows you to roll back your system from only a few minutes ago to a few months gone) and also the additional of Norton Password Manager that will ensure you that your passwords are protected and makes the repetitive nature of typing in passwords a thing of the past. Highly Recommended!

- Andrew B