Virus and Malware protection

If you do not protect your computer against viruses and malware you can lose your own work and cause major problems for yourself and for other network users.

If you connect your computer to the University network (including ResNet), you must have a working anti-virus program.

Privately owned student computers running Microsoft Windows

Newly purchased computers often have a trial version of anti-virus software installed. You will usually be given the option of purchasing this software before it expires.

For privately owned computers Academic Services recommends the use of Microsoft Security Essentials. This is a free download. 

You will need an internet connection to download this software.

Before downloading and installing this software you should remove any existing anti-virus software from your computer. This should be done even if the existing software is out of date. Failure to do this may result in Microsoft Security Essentials, or even your computer, not working correctly.

The support section on the Microsoft Security Essentials web page provides information on removing old software, installing Microsoft Security Essentials, scanning your computer and fixing threats when detected.

Privately owned student computers running Mac OS X

The Mac is designed with built-in technologies that provide protection against malicious software and security threats right out of the box. However, since no system can be 100 per cent immune from every threat, anti-virus software may offer additional protection. If you run Windows on your Mac you should install Microsoft Security Essentials on the Windows drive.

General security precautions

You can reduce the risk of getting viruses and spyware by taking five simple steps to increase your PC or Mac’s security:

• Keep your operating system (‘OS’) updated – all manufacturers release regular updates to fix security problems found with their software.
• Install anti-virus software and keep the virus definitions up to date.
• Make sure your firewall is activated – this can prevent viruses from spreading and stop spyware distributing information found on your computer.
• Manage your Windows or Mac computer correctly by using a "limited" or "standard" account for normal use and not an "administrator" account. Ensure that all accounts are password protected.
• Manage your web browser by blocking most cookies to prevent unwanted programs from installing without your knowledge.