What is an antivirus better?

How to solve a problem with Symantec AntiVirus?

• I just got a problem that I've had before - I solved it through formatting last time, but I don't want to do this again. Today, I've decided to get a new Antivirus (that is Avast!). I didn't want to delete the old antivirus (Symantec AntiVirus) because I was afraid that I might get that problem again (which, apparently, I still got it...). So, after I installed Avast!, I told myself that it would be better to uninstall the old antivirus, though. So, I went to Add or Remove Programs, clicked uninstall Symantec AntiVirus, but when it said "Are you sure?", I've clicked no. I've decided that I don't want to risk getting that problem again. But... When I right-clicked the My Computer icon - there it was. I've got this problem - again! So, what actually is this problem? I might have a few problems explaining it, but I'll try my best. When I right click any icon, a pop-up appears (Title: "Windows Installer"; Description: "Preparing to install..."; Options: X, Cancel. Later changes to: Title: "Symantec Antivirus"; Description: "Please wait while Windows configures Symantec AntiVirus."; Options: X, Cancel. Later, it does something more, but I can't recall what exactly). After I click cancel (or the X button) a couple of times, the pop-up disappears and the action that should happen after I right-click appears. I don't know what to do. Last time I tried to uninstall Symantec AntiVirus, it screwed up even more. My father convinced me to re-install Symantec, because "it's a good antivirus", but I disagree with him now. Any help, though? I would appreciate it.

• Answer:

  First off, never install two antivirus on a computer. Keep only one. Second, if you decide to remove Norton, don't uninstall it from the Control Panel. Use their special removal tool: https://www-secure.symantec.com/norton-support/jsp/help-solutions.jsp?docid=20080710133834EN&lg=english&ct=united+states&product=home&version=1&pvid=f-home&entsrc=redirect_pubweb