If you're moving to Windows XP, pack along Norton SystemWorks 2002, a suite stuffed with top-notch tools for protecting and repairing your PC. The first and, so far, only utility suite compatible with Windows XP, SystemWorks monitors your PC's health, fixes errors, protects against viruses, and purges unwanted applications. So, if you're upgrading your OS or don't have a utility toolkit already, SystemWorks 2002 is a steal at AU$149. However, Windows 95 users are completely in the cold, and 2002 has so few new features, SystemWorks 2001 vets shouldn't bother with the AU$98 upgrade.
Disclaimer: SystemWorks 2002 includes Extra Features, which we did not review.
ZNet Rating: 8 out of 10
One-click checkup
Symantec hasn't messed with the SystemWorks interface, and all of its key tools still fit under a launch pad interface, a simple window with links to each of the major tools: Norton Utilities, Norton AntiVirus, and Norton CleanSweep. The utilities have a consistent look and feel, although AntiVirus 2002 now sports an idiot-proof panel of self-explanatory indicators that tell you whether your antivirus definitions are up-to-date and the date of your last full virus scan. This streamlined package is easy to use and leads you unerringly through each successive step.
SystemWorks' components are as savvy as utilities get in the PC universe. The suite includes Norton Utilities, a collection of PC revival and repair programs, and a full copy of Norton AntiVirus 2002, the best virus killer we've used. Meanwhile, CleanSweep, though easily the least-important part of SystemWorks (Windows has a credible substitute, the Add/Remove Programs applet in the Control Panel), thoroughly eradicates unwanted applications and does an excellent job of clearing out unnecessary files, including temp files created when you install software.
We were especially impressed by SystemWorks' One Button Checkup tool, which runs seven of the most important SystemWorks tools, scans the Registry, and verifies that AntiVirus is on task--all with just a single click from the first screen you see after launching the suite. And you can create rescue disks that let you boot Windows 98 and Me in an emergency or boot with the SystemWorks CD itself (if your PC supports bootable CDs, as most newer models do).
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