Cybersecurity history – first release year of Norton AntiVirus According to software release history, in which year did Symantec first release its Norton AntiVirus product line to consumers?

Introduction / Context:
Timeline awareness of landmark security products helps contextualize the evolution of malware and defenses. Norton AntiVirus is one of the longest-standing consumer antivirus brands.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The question requires the initial commercial release year.
• Symantec acquired and developed various security technologies during the late 1980s and early 1990s.
• We are not being asked about later rebrands such as Norton Security or 360.

Concept / Approach:
Historical records place the first Norton AntiVirus release in 1990, during the DOS and early Windows era, when viruses spread via floppy disks and bulletin boards. Later years saw frequent updates and expanded platforms, but 1990 marks the debut year associated with the Norton AntiVirus brand.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Consider the broader PC timeline: DOS dominance in the late 1980s, Windows 3.x in early 1990s.Identify when consumer AV suites began to appear widely.Select the earliest correct year among the options that aligns with documented release notes: 1990.

Verification / Alternative check:
Product histories and archived press materials reference Norton AntiVirus shipping in 1990 under the Symantec brand, with subsequent annual updates.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• 1988: predates the named product line; Symantec offered other utilities then.
• 1995 and 1997: later iterations and platform expansions occurred but are not the initial release year.

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing the first “Norton” utilities (for example, Norton Utilities) with “Norton AntiVirus,” which debuted later.

Final Answer:
1990