Protect Your PC
These are things you can and should do to protect your PC from viruses and other malicious code. In the process of protecting your PC, you also help to protect the SIUE network since viruses generally spread from one infected machine across the network.
Install Antivirus Software and Keep it Up to Date.
Antivirus software can be purchased from a variety of sources for personal PCs.
It is not enough to simply have antivirus software installed on your machine. You also must make certain that it is up to date at all times. New viruses are created on a regular basis, and those virus definitions must be added to your antivirus product. Many products allow you to update your virus definitions on a set schedule, i.e., whenever you boot your machine, every day at noon, etc. At a minimum, it is recommended that you check for updates at least once a week, more frequently if you hear of a virus outbreak, and that you scan your machine for viruses on a similar schedule.
Check for Windows Updates on a Regular Basis.
Microsoft puts out updates which are designed to correct known problems with its operating systems in order to eliminate vulnerabilities to attacks by viruses, worms, trojans and other destructive code.
Windows Update works with:
- Microsoft Windows Server Family
- Windows Vista
- Windows 7
- Windows 8 and 8.1
Windows XP and older are no longer supported by Microsoft, but archived updates for these two versions are still available.
To use Windows Update click on the Windows icon at the bottom left of your screen and type in the search bar "Windows Update" and click on Windows Update. On the next screen click on "Check for Updates" on the left hand side. Your machine will be scanned and you will be notified if there are any updates available. Those updates generally fall into three categories: Critical Updates and Services Packs, Windows xx, and Driver Updates. It is the Critical Updates and Service Packs which are the most important to download and install. These are the updates that make your machine less vulnerable to viruses and other malicious code.
Other Useful Resources for Protecting your PC
If you need additional information after consulting this source, you are encouraged to contact the Customer Support Center at (618) 650-5500.
