Guard Against Computer Infection

The College of Wooster Technology Services wants to make sure that all of the machines connecting to our network are taking precautions against viruses and malware. Please read through our recommendations. We realize there are other applications out there, these are the ones we are recommending because of their history of keeping machines protected as well as being cost conscious.

ANTI – VIRUS PROTECTION:

Windows:

Windows 10 machines come with Windows Defender which is Microsoft’s version of antivirus.  As long as you are keeping your machine up to date with the latest Microsoft Updates, this would be all you would need for antivirus.  If you want to use something else or if you don’t have the latest version of Windows, AVG Free is a good option. 

Mac OS X:

Mac OS X does not have an antivirus built in.  AVG makes a free antivirus program that you can get to by going to the site listed below.

 **You should not install multiple antivirus programs as they can conflict with each other and end up not being effective.

Recommended program:

AVG Free

Instructions (mac)

The link will direct you to the site’s homepage. Simply follow the simple steps of installing AVG by clicking on the FREE download button 

after pressing the green button, AVG will immediately download. If for some reason this does not happen, then click on the blue link under the first image on the page. 

After the program has downloaded, then click the downloaded file and you should be directed to this page. Double click the Icon to begin the installation process. Which once followed, will provide you with FREE AVG software.

Malware:

Spyware and adware are two kinds of malicious programs generally referred to as malware (malicious software). These programs are responsible for pop-up advertisements, while some forms are even more destructive and may try to steal your identity and other personal information. They often come bundled with questionable applications (like file-sharing software) and run in the background without your knowledge or consent.

For both Windows and Mac OS X machines, we recommend the free application from Malwarebytes. 

Recommended program:

Malwarebytes

Instructions (mac)

The link will lead you to the page above. To download Malwarebytes for free, click the GREEN button.

Malwarebytes should instantly download after clicking the button. In case it doesn’t, click the blue link directly under the “Thank you!” Heading.

Once the program is downloaded, you open the program to see this window, click the top icon to being the installation process. Following the steps will provide you with Malwarebytes. 

Firewalls:

A firewall helps protect your computer from Internet attacks by restricting access to and from your computer. Mac OS X and Windows both have a built-in firewall.

Mac OS X:

1. In System Preferences, click on Security.
2. On the Firewall tab, click Start.
3. Close the Preferences pane.

Windows:

1. In Control Panel, click on System and Security.
2. Click on Windows Firewall.
3. Select the On option.
4. Click OK to save the changes.