A test version of the upcoming Norton 360 online security service has been launched.

The service is designed to give comsumers full protection from online threats in one package. Anyone wanting to sign up for the trial can do so at the Norton website.
It is a closed trial, so is subject to invitation even after registering, but a public trial, which anyone can join, will be taking place later in the summer.

Symantec hope that Norton 360 will protect all aspects of computers without requiring much work from the user. The service will include online backup for important documents such as photos and music.

The software will provide security for Windows XP as well as Windows Vista when the new operating system is launched next year.

Norton 360 will provide full security while surfing the web, online shopping and banking. It will also make sure important files are backed up and improve the computer's performance.

Following the idea of Web 2.0, a term used to describe the next generation of internet services, Symantec describe Norton 360 as part of their Security 2.0 plan. This includes more online support for consumers.