My Action Center is consistently giving me two Security warnings: "Spyware and unwanted software protection: Windows Defender and Norton 360 both report that they are turned off" and "Virus Protection: Norton 360 reports that it is turned off". I'm given the chance to turn Norton 360 under both warnings, which leads to Windows asking permission to run "C:\Program Files (x86)\Norton 360\Engine\5.1.0.29\WSCStub.exe". Clicking "yes" causes cursor arrow to "think" for 1 second but Norton 360 doesn't turn on.
I've tried rebooting without success. I've downloaded Norton's updated definitions up through today. I cannot open the user interface from the shortcut on my desktop. I cannot find any Norton or Symantec programs running in my task manager. It seems my updated version of Norton 360 is v5.2.0.13 (which is inconsistent with the file for the .exe above).
Win 7 Professional, 64bit, SP1 and updates current
This is licensed for three computers- the other two computers are running fine; this is my only Windows 7 usage, though.
This is a new computer. Trial AV software was uninstalled before installing N360 v5.0 from disc (which is across the ocean with my parents).
I am sorry to hear of your issue. First, you should make sure that Windows defender is off when using Norton 360. You should not be running any other real time security program in conjunction with Norton 360.
Does your computer show any signs of infection? Slowness, browser redirects or any odd behavior? If so, we need to deal with that before proceeding.
What Trial AV software was on your machine and how was it uninstalled? If not done so already, you may have use that company's removal utility to completely rid the computer of any remnants. Let us know as we can direct you to the specific tool if needed.
If your computer is not displaying any signs of malware and the previous security program was completely removed, then proceed with the following:
Since you are having a problem with your current product, I would recommend a complete uninstall and then update to Norton 360v6. With a valid subscription, you are eligible for this at no charge. You will not need the CD, just possibly your activation code.
Although some of these procedures may seem redundant, please execute each step.
Phil_D, thanks for your help. I cannot find any hint of the previous security software and have made the upgrade to Norton 360 v6.1.2.10 per your instructions. After installation everything openned as expected, updated definitions, etc. all just fine.
Upon reboot I cannot open the Norton 360 User Interface via desktop shortcut or start menu (the same problem I had before). I've discovered one change. My Action Center no longer warns the computer is unprotected and through the control panel I am told Norton 360 is now managing all of security settings. (Windows Defender is off.)
I have a Norton gadget on the desktop that says "no connection". I try to run Live Update from the Start Menu (by right clicking Norton shortcut) and nothing happens for about two minutes. Then an error pops up saying, "Error Detected: The scan cannot run because Norton 360 has encountered an internal error." A sub program called User Account Control runs asking permission to allow "Symantec Error Reporting" to run. After a brief scan, error 8504,101 is identified. An auto-fix is attempted with instructions to restart. I've done the restart and have experienced the same sequence as described above.
I found a Norton bulletin on the the 8504,101 error suggesting they've seen the error associated with Lenovo (of which mine is a Lenovo) computers and a program called RapidBoot. The link is below:
Do your resources or experience have any advice or next steps to offer from here? Should I try the Norton Remove and Reinstall tool suggested in the bulletin or would I be ahead to study the Lenovo/RapidBoot issue first?
I've uninstalled RapidBoot v1.10 from my Lenovo E520 laptop. I can now open Norton 360 User interface and my gadget/widget on the desktop comes up saying "secure". I think I'm back in business.
I'm working from a slow internet connection in West Africa. I'm downloading RapidBoot v1.12 and will see if the update will allow Norton to function as normal. I'll try to post again.
It is my understanding that Norton 360 works fine after the RapidBoot 1.12 update.
I saw some problems also on the Comcast Forum (re: Norton Security Suite on Lenovo's) and either the removal of RapidBoot or the update to V 1.12 cleared the situation up and has remained fixed.
The note in the bulletin you referenced was a result of the efforts of folks reporting this situation on these forums, and the Norton team updating the Bulletim April 11th.