PC help: Security software compatibility

Q On installing Norton Internet Security 2006 to replace my soon-to-expire 2002 version, I was instructed to uninstall Zone Alarm and Spybot, as they are not compatible with Norton.

I appreciate that the new Norton 2006 provides duplicate protection but Computeractive often advises us to install free programs.

Several programs are surely better than total reliance on one. What would happen if I re-installed them?
Terry Chapman

A With anti-virus and firewall programs, you run one of each type at once. If you’ve paid for a program, use that. Running more than one firewall will cause problems for the computer and may stop your internet connection from working.

With anti-spyware programs, the situation is more complicated. Generally Spybot can co-exist with another anti-spyware program such as the one provided by Norton, but it may cause a few problems. Also, you might have trouble getting support from Symantec, Norton’s maker, if you reinstall Spybot. It’s probably best to stick with Norton’s version.

We recommend free programs but paid-for programs usually offer more support and better features.