NIS 2012 vs NIS 2011 ??

OK, so I usually wait until the "dust settles" on NIS updates before installing.

With the latest version of NIS 2012 - 19.6.1.8  I am at that decision point.

However, after reviewing the NIS 2012 product details, I cannot find any major improvement or element that is different from 2011 as respects running on a pc. (I don't care about stuff such as Facebook or Mobile usage).

 

Can anyone advise why I should take the risk of possible upgrade problems to go from NIS 2011 to NIS 2012? I am looking for specific performance or security items as installed on a desktop pc. Is NIS 2012 faster, smarter, any new security features?

 

Also please advise the link to manually download the latest version of NIS 2012 for offline installation. 

 

Also, what is the current consensus about first uninstalling the previous version before installing the update? Most of the "official" Norton information says to utilize the normal Windows program removal routine and Norton Removal Tool only in the event that that fails.  I see that there are those here who always recommend the NRT regardless.  Since the automatic updater doesnt use the NRT, I tend to take the middle ground and use the windows uninstaller and then manually install the new program while my pc is offline and my cable disconnected.

 

Thanks to all that respond.