With so many people using the internet, it is obvious that there will be some malicious users. The bad thing is that harmful software constantly evolves but on the bright side, so do security measures. Norton Power Eraser was created for the sole purpose of removing “elegant” security threats that are usually undetectable by normal antiviruses.
Installation & Requirements
There is no setup process for Norton Power Eraser as it is a standalone scanner utility. Simply run the downloaded file and you are good to go. The application supports Windows XP/Vista/7 and 8.
Interface
The interface is very clean and pleasant to look at. You are presented with three main paths to take, a normal scan for risks, the advanced options and the ability to undo a previous fix if it caused problems in your computer. They are all equally easy to use and require minimal user input.
Clicking on the “Scan for Risks” button will start the process automatically. The application will scour through your computer to find the software it is looking for. Keep in mind that it is not an anti-virus scanner but it is rather reserved for threats that cannot normally be removed or detected as they disguise themselves as legitimate programs. In addition to that, keep in mind that the application will automatically include a Rootkit scan which will require you to restart your computer. If you do not want that, you should uncheck the option from the settings.
When the scan is completed you will be presented with the unwanted files, if there are any. You will also have the option of learning more about them through Norton’s Reputation system, a very handy tool if you are not sure whether or not a file is legit. You also need to keep in mind that it will not always be correct and some legitimate applications might be flagged as inappropriate and you will have to make your own decision. However, the program will also offer to create a restore point so you will be safe. Even if you do not create a point, you can undo the fix through the application’s interface as I mentioned before.
The advanced options are more specific and most users will not find much use for them. The first one is for the application to scan a specific file or folder through their Reputation system so that you can make the decision yourself on whether or not they are malicious. The last option is for computers that use multiple operating systems.
Pros
-The program is extremely easy to use in all of its options
-The various options allow for more experienced users to make conscious decisions on the programs they wish to keep
-Norton’s Reputation system is amazing to find out why that particular file found its way into your system
Cons
-Due to the nature of the application some legitimate programs might be flagged as bad
Conclusion
If you are really having trouble removing particularly devious files and applications from your system and you simply want an easy-to-use utility that will do the hard work for you, Norton Power Eraser will be there to save the day.
