I don't use virus scanners - because I don't surf porn or download "free" software

But just in case, here's some wood for you to knock on Richard.

@Dj.... Totally agree... if you don't go down dark alley ways, you don't get mugged....

Just to note, I use AVG free and have done for some time. Great for basic protection and plays nice with ARC with no issues whatsoever.

I haven't replaced Norton yet, but I will be based on all the comments. To answer Jeremie, I am connected to the internet. Otherwise this conversation would not be possible (correct?). But since you mentioned it, is there a way to confirm the communication status? Any diagnostic tools?

Confirm the communication status to the internet? As in, can ARC connect to the internet? Enter your user credentials in Preferences and press Verify & Save

BUT! That won't test the issue that you are having. The issue you are having is Windows PC not allowing the default web browser to be opened by ARC. With or without an internet connection, the browser will load.

I agree , I do not use a active virus scanner , If I need to download something I have a Quarantine PC to download it on from untrusted sources and then test it before putting it on my main machine. Generally speaking I don't download "free stuff" because there is always a catch.

I don't run it on my machines. I have a Linux box that downloads go to first and they are scanned. Also, the firewall I have scans for viruses in content as it comes into my network. I do have defender enabled though.

There are a lot of ways to still protect yourself without killing the performance on your devices.