Get a $180 Norton utility bundle for free

As I've mentioned many times before, I have mixed feelings about security and utility software. But I have no doubts whatsoever about getting something for nothing, especially when it's a software bundle worth $180.

Update: And I'm not the only one. Looks like this is sold out, at least for online ordering. Your only option now is to visit your local Fry's--if you have one.

Fry's is offering Norton Internet Security 2010 (three-user license), Norton Utilities 14 (three-user license), and Norton Ghost 15 absolutely free--if you're willing to jump a couple hoops, that is.

Here's the deal. Purchased separately, these products would run you $179.97. Fry's sells them as a bundle for $84.99. Currently, that bundle is on sale for $74.99 shipped. A pair of mail-in rebates knocks your total cost down to $0.

Rebate No. 1(PDF) nets you a $50 prepaid Visa card. Rebate No. 2 (PDF) is good for a $25 prepaid Visa card--but here's where the hoop jumping comes in.

To get rebate No. 2, you need to supply proof that you're upgrading from an earlier version of "any Norton or Symantec software or another company's antivirus, firewall, antispam, antispyware, utility, or back up software product."

What constitutes proof? You name it: a receipt, the first page of the manual, an e-mail confirmation, or even a screenshot of the software's Help/About screen. It shouldn't be too hard to scrounge up one of those.

If you don't feel like waiting up to eight weeks on your Visa cards (or you'd prefer cash), check out RebateRemedy. In exchange for a percentage of the rebate, this service cuts you a check (or delivers PayPal funds) in a matter of days. You can read more about it over at PC World.

By the way, CNET hasn't yet reviewed Norton Internet Security 2010, but gave Norton Internet Security 2010 fairly high marks, and PC Magazine awarded it an Editors' Choice. I haven't found any worthwhile reviews of the other two apps, but both products have good reputations.

Bonus deal: Meritline has a 1,800mAh iPhone-iPod battery pack for $9.99 shipped (with coupon code MLC262531021240N). It expires after the first 150 orders, so act fast!