Norton does download updates automatically if you set it that way, and you get to choose how often, too. That means that when a new widespread virus is found and a cure is designed, you get it right away. I'm set on weekly downloads followed by weekly scans with the new cures. It's also a good reminder to me, when it leaves me that all-clear message, to do some other routine system maintenance-- file cleanups, cache-clearing, archiving messages, etc.

~S~