Expert: Carolyn Meinel - 10/7/2004

Question
Can't install norton's antivirus on Windows XP Have a brand new Dell Laptop

Answer
There is a good chance that your computer is infected by a virus that prevents instllation of Norton.

Here's how to solve your problem. First, install the free version of Grisoft antivirus, from http://www.grisoft.com/us/us_dwnl_free.php

To make sure Grisoft eradicates all copies of any viruses, you will need to disable System Restore. Windows XP uses System Restore to restore damaged files. If a virus, worm, or Trojan infects a computer, System Restore might have backed them up. Windows will not let antivirus or adware/spyware removal programs clean up System Restore. Later, if you use System Restore, it might also restore viruses, worms, and Trojans. In order to get rid of nasty programs hiding in System Restore, you first need to disable it.

How to disable or enable System Restore in Windows XP:
http://service1.symantec.com/SUPPORT/tsgeninfo.nsf/docid/2001111912274039?OpenDo...

After scanning with Grisoft, if you still want to use Norton, uninstall Grisoft and try installing Norton again. If it works, then you will know you solved the problem. If Norton still won't install, then perhaps there is something wrong with Norton antivirus itself, some sort of installation bug. Norton will normally give you free technical support if it is a problem caused by a bug in Norton itself. Be sure to tell them you already scanned your computer with Grisoft so they know it isn't a virus.

If you decided to stick with Grisoft, be sure to get the paid version so you will get updates.