ARCHIVED: In Symantec AntiVirus for Windows, how can I manually update virus patterns?

On your Windows computer, you can obtain the most recent virus pattern update files by running Symantec's Intelligent Updater. Intelligent Updater is an alternative to LiveUpdate, which will automatically update your computer's virus pattern files. For more options, see the Knowledge Base document ARCHIVED: For Symantec virus protection software, what are my options for updating the virus definitions?

Intelligent Updater is less convenient to use than LiveUpdate, simply because it it is a manual process. Additionally, it may require a larger download, which may be inconvenient if you have a slower speed/lower bandwidth connection, such as dial-up. However, Symantec considers Intelligent Updater to be more secure; it is updated every business day. Normally, LiveUpdate is only scheduled for weekly updates, although if major, widespread outbreaks occur, it is updated as soon as possible.

Using one method of updating does not preclude the other. On the same computer you can choose to schedule LiveUpdate automatic updates, and also manually run Intelligent Updater whenever you wish to update your virus pattern files.

Download virus definition file

1. Download the latest virus definition updates from the Symantec web page at:

     http://www.symantec.com/avcenter/download.html

2. Follow the directions on the web page to download the updates. You will need to know which version of Symantec AntiVirus (SAV) and Windows you have. For more information regarding which versions you have, see the Knowledge Base documents ARCHIVED: In Symantec/Norton AntiVirus, how do I check the version number of the program and the age of the virus pattern update? and ARCHIVED: How can I determine what version of Windows 95, 98, or Me I have?

Run the update

1. Locate the downloaded .exe update file, then double-click the file to launch the program.
2. The update file will display a dialog box describing the files it's decompressing and installing. There is no need for you to do anything. Once it's finished, the dialog box will close itself, and the program will be updated.