AntiVirus
Software
New
viruses are written and released on a daily basis. Many of the more common
viruses "morph" or change frequently to make them more difficult to detect.
Viruses spread rapidly and by many different ways (for example, via e-mail
attachments; infected document files; Web sites that contain hostile code that
can infect your computer through vulnerable browsers; and unprotected file
shares). Your computer may be vulnerable to virus attacks if you are not using
antivirus and spyware software and updating it regularly.
Important...
New computers often come with trial versions of antivirus software. Having
two different antivirus programs installed on one computer can cause conflicts.
Always uninstall the antivirus software that came on your computer before
installing new antivirus software.
Unfortunately, no one
is immune to malicious programs and intrusions. The fact is,
everyone has to do their part so that multiple protections are in place.
Although CIS and Philander
Smith College
departments work to ensure a safe computing environment, every individual who
owns a computer must protect themselves as well. Criminals who write malicious
software are always looking for ways to overcome defenses, so multiple
protective measures are necessary.
Security Updates:
Relying on the fact that many computer users fail to install software
patches on their machines, hackers create worms to take advantage of these
vulnerabilities. Most software vendors, including Microsoft and Apple, offer
updates to correct security gaps that worms and other malicious programs can
use to attack your computer. Running AntiVirus is not enough. You can configure
your computer to automatically seek out updates for hassle-free security.
Important...
If you are running Windows XP, we strongly recommend that you install
the Windows XP Service Pack 2 (SP2) from Microsoft if you have not already done
so.
Firewall:
Your
Internet-connected computer is probed many times daily by automated attack tools
seeking ways to break into and take over your system. Severe attacks may delete
important data, crash your system, spawn new attacks, or even steal personal
information, such as passwords and credit card numbers. A firewall can help protect
your computer by blocking potentially hostile connection attempts. Unit firewalls
(firewalls that are designed to help protect multiple computers in a university
department, or a home or apartment complex network) and properly configured personal
firewalls (firewalls that you can install on your own computer) can each provide
effective security to suit various needs. For home use, personal firewalls are
often free.
Important...
Windows XP and Mac OS X have built-in firewalls. It is important to ensure