AboutSean Oriyano Expertise I can answer questions relating to viruses, worms, trojans, logic bombs and other types of malicious code. I can answer your questions relating to how such code spreads, how they work and how to prevent and remove such.
Experience I am a security specialist who instructs for the US Military and Federal Government as well as private organizations. I also consult and lecture frequently on the topic of Information Security.
Organizations BECCA, ISSA, Infraguard, EC Council
Education/Credentials CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional), CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker), CHFI (Computer Hacking Forensic Investigator), SCNP/SCNS (Security Certified Network Professional/Specialist), Security , CEI (Certified EC Council Instructor).
Question QUESTION: Hi Sean,
I know I need internet security and normally buy Norton Interent security, but is there anything wrong with me buying a older version [one from 2006, 2005, etc] and then just downloading the updates using the subscription you get with the product? I mean do you need new interent security products or is the subscription to updates more important?
Thanks for listening,
Frank
ANSWER: Hi Frank,
The simple answer is yes, you would lose something by not buying the latest version. I don't think the version from 2005 will help you as much as the current one will, but if you get the 2006 version you might be able to get things pretty up-to-date and get the best protection. However you have also mentioned something just as important, updates, without the latest updates your security product is useless.
Good luck,
Sean
---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------
QUESTION: Hi Sean,
Thanks for the answer, sorry to be so picky, but what would you lose? I mean would it just be functionality [the bells and whistles] or would the core protection be less and make me more open to attacks?
Like I said thanks and sorry for agging you, but I really apreciate the help,
Frank
ANSWER: Hi Frank,
Great question actually, instead of me giving you the technical answer let me use an analogy. You know how you can get a shot for Tetanus or the Flu? Well for both of these you have to get a new shot or booster periodically to make sure your immune system knows about new strains of a disease. In the case of security software it's the same thing, old software won't necessarily know about or be prepared to deal with new threats. I wouldn't go back more than a year when buying security software because anymore becomes a lifetime in software years.
Good luck,
Sean
---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------
QUESTION: Sorry,
Last time [I promise!!], but if you download all the updates available [that you get with the subscription that comes with any old unused version of Norton] won't that cover all the new viruses?
I mean when it downloads updates, the most common one seems to be called 'Virus definitions', doesn't that mean it will always get any new virus types?
This REALLY is the last time and I'll definatly nominate you for adviser of the month, you deserve if not a medal!!
Thanks again,
Frank
Answer HI Frank,
Actually, you're getting a little bit of "Tunnelvision" here which is the problem. Put it this way, viruses aren't the worst thing that can happen to you. Having a firewall and antispyware program that can deal with the latest threats is vital. Like I said a year old probably is OK, but any further than that and things will have changed enough to cause you grief.
If you have any more questions, please feel free to ask.
