In need of serious help

I have loaded the new Norton 360 in my windows 7 several times, my husband kept telling me maybe I did something wrong. I know I didn't But I did anyway . But I know there is something in the computer that is preventing Norton from completing a full scan or even a quick scan. I get the scan to go up to about 5449. and then it stalls. My programs are starting to act funny within my laptop, some are not even working. I had apype at one time I thought it was removed. But I know this is one of those that is so hard to remove and can be a disaster. I am thinking about a total reboot. And going open source. I have some experience but it has been awhile so I am very rusty at this and my health is not the best, so I easily get frustrated. So if anybody has answers I would appreciate them. Thank you so much in advance