Symantec has released a new utility called Norton Antibot to help users detect signs of botnet activity on a Windows computer.

The tool, available as a free beta download, is a sign that Symantec plans to fit the anti-bot capabilities into its anti-virus product offerings.

The move ratchets up the fight against botnets of hijacked Windows machines that are used as spam-spewing machines or in distributed denial-of-service attacks.

Symantec promises the Norton AntiBot can:

• Actively and continuously monitor your PC’s applications and processes 24x7 so you’re always protected.
• Thoroughly remove detected bots and malware and their related components, custom installation files and registry settings.
• Strengthen any security product by providing an additional layer of protection against bots and other emerging threats.