HOWEVER, before I try yet MORE fixes (so far none have not worked for me), I simply want to know whether I am still ACTUALLY protected anyway, regardless of whether there's a red X in my tray.
Here's why I ask: I update regularly. I even used the Intelligent Updater just today. I have even gone to the Norton panel and checked the "History" (just below the "scan now" link) and the activity that is reported there suggests that I am being protected ("Unauthorized access block" 1/25/10, etc.). I also have no "errors" in my log (under the "view" tab).
Can someone who knows this product inside and out assure me that my PC is protected, so I don't have to bother with this?
If this red x is merely a matter of appearances, then fine. I'm just tired of fooling with this problem, if I don't have too.
Thanks for your quick reply. I'm on XP, and using an HP machine, and I've not tried the uninstall/install, which felt a bit "involved" for me, truth be told. (I know....)
BUT first things first: mysteriously, my red x turned into a green check mark. I didn't see it happen. It did not change to green immediately after I did everything here except step 1 (checking the date):
It changed to green when I stepped away from the computer, needing a break from it all.
So thanks for asking. I appreciate your offer to help.
I am still interested in my primary question, for all those other users out there, if you or anyone else has an opinion:
Are people's PCs protected even IF this red x is there, and they've followed all the appropriate steps? (It seemed that while I still had that x, I was protected, which is all that really matters to me.)
I think knowing the answer to this question might make folks relax a bit more, as it IS distressing to see that x and to think your computer is vulnerable.
Glad it solved itself...it is hard to say as I am not techie,but have run into a few things that involve the red X.....I personally would assume NIS or NAV is not working if it shows the red x and would stay here on the forums until I got an answer on how to get it back to normal or try the Chat service.
It also depends on the situation surrounding the red X and why it happened because there are so many varibles now with different problems and Viruses/rootkits it is better to assume the worst.The red X is a sign something is amiss and needs looking into.