Norton Ghost

Editor's Review

Norton Ghost 15 is a comprehensive data backup software suite that let's users backup an entire PC, including system preferences and even hidden folders. The software offers encryption and compression features that are industry-standard, fully securing even the largest databases. Recovering lost or damaged data caused by system crashes, viruses or other computer mishaps has never been easier with Norton Ghost 15.

Norton Ghost 15 offers an exclusive feature known as remote backup management, which let's users manage PC backups from remote devices, in the event of complete system failure. Backups can also be burned to disc or exported to an external hard drive for safe keeping. This ensures complete system security, regardless of what happens to the operating system, or even the hardware itself.

Users can automatically send backups to remote online locations via FTP, removing the need for backup media such as discs or external hard drives. Backups performed by Norton Ghost 15 can also be performed on a scheduled basis to prevent data loss between backups. Users have the option of scheduling backups as often or as infrequent as they'd like.

Norton Ghost 15 also offers compatibility with nearly every kind of storage device including USB flash drives, external hard drives, networked drives, CDs and DVDs. Users can also backup their computer's data without shutting it down using the exclusive hot backups feature. This saves time and allows users to continue about their daily computing tasks uninterrupted.

The encryption features offered in Norton Ghost15 are unparalleled in the data backup software industry, offering compatibility with industry standard encryption utilities such as Windows 7 BitLocker. The software provides maximum protection by encrypting the entire drive backup. The program conducts routine integrity checks to ensure the quality of the data encryption is maintained at a high level of security.

The new and exclusive cold imaging technology is an interesting feature that lets users make drive backups before installing Norton Ghost 15. With this technology, a backup can be made with the computer's factory default settings still in tact before any software is installed. This feature works by booting the computer into a preloaded recovery environment, which is similar to a condensed version of the Windows Operating system. Inexperienced users may find it beneficial to use the cold imaging feature before installing a new operating system, to prevent unwanted mishaps.

Norton Ghost: What We Liked

Setting a backup schedule is easy, and backups can be created while users execute their normal computing tasks.

The software uses Symantec's ThreatCon technology to prompt backup creation whenever the system reaches a certain threat level. This technology prevents data loss by recognizing the warning signs of potential system crashes and acting accordingly.

Exporting backups was an extremely simple, turn-key process, that even the most novice user could complete.

The data encryption service is capable of protecting the computer from nearly any malicious intruder.

Norton Ghost: What We Didn't Like

Although the Cold imaging technology may prove to be beneficial, it is not as simple to use as one would expect.

Symantec Support

Symantec offers tech support for all Norton products at their Norton Support Center online. Alternatively, Symantec offers phone support and email support as well. The support center consists of various help sections, including Download and Order assistance, Subscription, Automatic Renewal, Installation, Product Activation, Technical Issues, Error Messages and more.

About Symantec

Since its inception in 1982 Symantec has been providing security software to individuals and corporations alike. Over the years Symantec has become the leading distributor of online information security software and anti-virus software. Symantec has made a name for itself with their increasingly popular Norton Anti-Virus branch, which has become a household name in the anti-virus industry. Symantec is headquartered in Mountain View, California, USA.