Norton Antivirus Free Trial: How It Works and Free Alternatives

Norton antivirus (made by Symantec, now Gen Digital) is a paid product with no permanent free edition. Old "free Norton setup" downloads are not legitimate. The safe ways to get it free for a while, or to stay protected for free, are below.

How the Norton free trial works

• Norton offers free trials of its paid plans, such as Norton AntiVirus Plus and Norton 360.
• Trial length varies by product and country. Norton's own pages have advertised trials from 7 to 30 days.
• You need a payment method, a card or PayPal, to start the trial.
• When the trial ends, the paid subscription starts automatically unless you cancel before then.

How to start the trial

1. Go to Norton's official downloads or trial page at norton.com (or your country's Norton site).
2. Pick the product, create a Norton account and add a payment method.
3. Download and install the app from your Norton account.
4. Set a reminder to cancel before the trial ends if you don't want to keep it.

Free protection already on your PC

Windows 10 and 11 include Windows Security with Microsoft Defender Antivirus. Microsoft says it is built into Windows and protects your device from the moment you start it. For many home users it is enough on its own, at no extra cost.

Avoid fake Norton downloads

Fake "free Norton" installers and pop-ups are a common scam. Only install Norton from norton.com or your Norton account.