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RRP: $149 Publisher/distributor: Symantec Format: PC CD-ROM Requirements: - Processor: 486 or better - Operating System: Win 95/98/NT - Comes with Norton Utilities 8 for DOS and Win 3.1 - Memory: 8MB RAM, 70MB HD Ease of Use: 4� stars Utility: 4� stars Comment: Proven track record Norton Utilities is the big name when it comes to utility programs. The Norton Utilities Integrator panel neatly categorises the various tools so you can quickly find, and start, the right utility. All the traditional utilities from previous releases are there: System Check for an overall system diagnosis, Disk Doctor for detecting errors on your hard disk, UnErase for recovering deleted files, Speed Disk for Defragmentation, Live Update for software updates from the Internet and the handy System Information utility for a complete lowdown on your system. You'll also find Crash Guard which attempts to prevent application malfunctions. An 'Anti-Freeze' button is added to the Task Manager to attempt unblock the troublesome application before shutting it down. And a Vital Save option can allow you to save open documents before the system halts- an option I found effective. WinDoctor is an excellent utility for scanning the Windows installation to check and repair missing files and registry problems. Connection Doctor can help solve problems with remote access and Internet connections. This is handy for resolving premature hang-ups and speed issues. Zip Rescue allows you store critical system information on one Zip or Jaz disk. This convenient one step solution sure beats a tower of floppy disks. This version of Norton Utilities doesn't include antivirus or Y2K utilities, though they are in SystemWorks ($229). With Norton Utilities you know you're getting quality with proven reliability. |