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 - It Didn't Work For MeEven though I've given this software a low rating, I suspect that the problem may be as much due to something in my computer that is interfering with McAfee's software as with the software itself. I'm running a five-year old IBM computer with an AMD Athalon chip, Windows XP home edition and a DSL connection that I only use for e-mail and web surfing. This is not the first time I've had trouble with the McAfee Security Suite on this computer. About three years ago, I installed McAfee, and it prevented me from opening a connection with my ISP, despite everything I tried. Eventually, I replaced McAfee with several other security suites, including, most recently, Norton Internet Security. My aging computer ran well with all of these programs. One of the most important aspects of a security suite is its ability to update itself with new threat signatures. In this area, on my computer, McAfee failed. The installation of the security suite went easily enough, although there was a not unexpected hassle first removing Norton Internet Security. However once, installed, McAfee seemed to be working fine. However, I turned off the computer and did not return to it for two weeks. When I opened up the McAfee Security Center it indicated that part of my protection had to be fixed because the detection signature files were between 8 and 29 days old. The Security Center told me that to resolve the problem, I had to click the fix button, which I did. A message told me that the software was fixing my protection items. The message remained in place and nothing further occurred all though I left the protection center open for several hours. The next thing I tried was to click the update button on the Security Center. I was told that an animated icon would appear on the task bar while the software was being updated. It never appeared and the software was not updated. Next I tried the McAfee Virtual Technician which claimed it would provide automatic diagnosis and problem resolution, It said it was providing updates and scanning components and then showed it was scanning various components of the software. Upon completion of the scan the software showed "Problem: DAT out of date" with a link to "update now". After clicking the fix button, the software showed it was searching for updates and then that the problem was fixed. But, lo and behold, when I went back to the Security Center the original problem of outdated files continued to exist. I tried to resolve the problem several times, including rebooting the computer. Eventually, I gave up trying to repair the software, and reinstalled the Norton software. I am certain this problem is not a general problem, or McAfee would be out of business. But for my aged computer, McAfee didn't work. You can take that for what it's worth. Rating:  - Great when Nothing HappensA product like this is difficult to rate, because when it works effectively, nothing happens. At least in terms of viruses, hacking, spyware, and such. However, since Total Protection has been installed, we have noticed a remarkable drop in spam emails, and the filters work exactly as desired. In terms of PC performance, Total Protection has resulted in improvement. Probably with the elimination of clutter that builds up after a time. With installation on multiple computers in the home, it has helped us to integrate printer and WiFi functions. So far, it seems to be an excellent product. Rating:  - AverageWhile this software may once have been a contencer no longer so. I greatly prefer MS One Care. In addition I dislike the need to subscribe to automatic renewal right form the installation Rating: - McAfee Total Protection 2008 ReviewThis product installs and works as advertised. McAfee has a quality product here. The 3-user license is nice in this product when you have multiple computers to protect. Rating:  - Very happy with software- not so much with customer serviceI really like this anti-virus software. It took about 10 minutes to install and an extra 2 to update. Seriously, this software is very easy to use and install. After installation, this software was ready to use and the interface is easy to navigate. It reads files FAST. The only slow up is when you activate the parental controls (a handy feature to have for a family) so if you don't need it, I suggest skipping it. I have no complaints about the software at all! The customer service on the other hand, I am not so happy with them. I have difficulty getting an e-mail response despite several attempts. Although it is a very minor issue, it would be nice to get a response. I cannot find a telephone number anywhere so that just leaves e-mail. Hmmmm. I am worried about what would happen if I have an real issue with the software. Hence the four stars.
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