Norton Internet Security 2000 (NIS2K) is the latest personal computer utility from Symantec. It is an integrated security product that combines anti-virus protection, censoring controls and a firewall.

The full retail release version Norton AntiVirus 2000 is built into NIS2K. It works exactly like the stand-alone version, giving access to a powerful range of anti-virus capabilities. The AutoProtect feature automatically scans files as they are downloaded, run, opened or created. This provides continuous protection from viruses coming from e-mail attachments, the Internet, floppy disks and CD-ROMs.

Other features of Norton AntiVirus 2000 are easy updating, graphical alerts, compressed file virus detection, quarantine facilities, malicious code detection and repair wizards. Bloodhound Heuristic Technology is used to detect and repair new and unknown viruses automatically, providing maximum protection for your computer. Scan and Deliver is one of the stand out features, letting users submit a file with a suspected or unrepairable virus to the Symantec AntiVirus Research Center (SARC). New virus definitions will be created by a SARC engineer for any new or unknown viruses, usually within 5 hours.

Powerful firewall technology is implemented by NIS2K to protect user's personal information and prevent unauthorised Internet connections. The firewall works by monitoring all inbound and outbound network communications, only permitting access that is determined to be safe. Active Content Blocking and Scanning protects against malicious Internet code and allows Java applets or ActiveX controls to be scanned once downloaded.

NIS2K uses the firewall's ability to read and manipulate every packet in and out, to provide other benefits, such as banner ad blocking and parental control. Ad Blocking speeds up web surfing by blocking ads, scripts, animated gifs and pop-up windows. Built-in user profiles and parental control features allow web site restrictions for younger children. Applications can also be restricted so that unwanted programs, such as games or chat programs, are not used online.

Personal information, such as credit card or social security numbers, is protected by NIS2K from unsecured web sites. NIS2K can prevent children from filling out forms on web sites with personal information, by automatically filtering the data stream and blocking or modifying information before it is sent out. Anonymous Surfing can block cookies and ensure that your browser does not send private information, including your e-mail address.

Finally, Norton Internet Security 2000 ensures up to date protection and support for your computer via the Symantec AntiVirus Research Center, LiveUpdate and LiveAdvisor.