Last modified Jun 23, 2009 2:59 p.m.
Computer Security for Students
Keeping your information secure and your computer safe is a tough job. Here are our recommendations.
- Operating System Security Updates - Both Microsoft and Apple releases security updates for their operating systems. For Windows users, go to Microsoft’s site for the latest security patches and service packs. For Mac users, run Software Update from the System Preferences (Mac OS X) or Control Panel (Mac OS 9).
- Antivirus Software - Antivirus software is crucial nowadays. We recommend downloading AVG Free antivirus to protect your computer. You can download it by clicking here.
- Current Antivirus Definitions - Having outdated virus definitions is almost as bad as not having virus protection. New viruses come out daily and only the latest virus definitions will allow your computer to identify and clean (or quarantine) them.
If you would like to check your personal security settings to make sure you are well protected, reference the Q&A below.
Q&A
Computer Security for Students
How do I know if Windows Update is enabled?
You can check the status of your Windows Update settings by opening up the Windows Security Center.
You can reach the Windows Security Center by either clicking on the shield icon in your system tray or by opening the Start Menu, opening “Settings”, selecting “Control Panel”, and then selecting Security Center.
Once open you should see a screen like the following:
If your firewall, antivirus, or Windows updates have any problems there will be a red light instead of a green light. Should you wish to change any of the settings for the Windows Firewall or Automatic Updates you can select the appropriate link at the bottom of the Security Center Window.
How do I know if my Antivirus is up to date?
Most antivirus programs will let you know if your definitions are out of date. If you open up your antivirus program there should be a section that tells you when it was last updated.
Another thing to keep in mind is that most antivirus programs require a paid subscription. If your antivirus program is telling you that your subscription is expired or you need to renew your subscription then it has probably stopped downloading virus definition updates. You will need to either renew your subscription or, if you are a current student, you can download Symantec Antivirus that we provide for all current students for free.