Antivirus

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Any computer connecting to LetNet from on campus or via remote connections must have an approved antivirus product installed with current definitions.

University-owned Computers
Windows Defender, the university's approved Early Detection and Response (EDR) program or an approved equivalent is required on all University-owned computing resources. If you have any questions about EDR on your university-provided computer please call the Information Technology (IT) Help Desk at x3500.

Personal Computers
It is your responsibility to make sure that your personal computers are protected from viruses. The best way to do this is to make sure you are running antivirus software with current virus definitions.

We strongly recommend Windows device owners use the Defender security system built into Windows 10 and beyond. Any additional antivirus suites installed by your laptop or computer manufacturer (such as McAfee Internet Security, etc) should be uninstalled unless you understand computer security services and have specific reasons for running more complex products. For most users, paying for additional Security Suite products beyond the included Windows Defender is unnecessary and can in some cases even cause your computer to work less well than using only the built-in protection. Those using Mac, Linux or other operating systems should select an appropriate anti-malware solution.

Recommended Antivirus Products:

  • Windows Defender
  • Symantec (No longer recommended due to unnecessary cost and user experience challenges)
  • McAfee (No longer recommended due to unnecessary cost and user experience challenges)

You may install any antivirus program on your computer as long as it is able to keep your computer virus free. If your computer experiences an infection while running an antivirus program we may recommend you install an alternate solution if your existing product appears inadequate.

Compromised Computers
Computers that are identified by IT as being compromised will be quarantined or disconnected from the network without prior notice. For all personal computers, it is the responsibility of the owner to clean the infected computer. For students living in the residence halls, IT may recommend having your computer professionally disinfected by one of several available local repair shops. For first-time infections, IT will reactivate your computer on the network based on your word that you have cleaned your computer of all infections. On any repeat infections, you will be required to provide proof (a receipt) of professional disinfection. If you are unable to obtain virus disinfection from a professional, you will need to provide a signed note from the person who cleaned your computer.

An excellent cleaning utility is Malwarebytes Antimalware. Download the free version, choose not to get the free 30-day premium trial during installation, and run a Quick Scan. This will remove most infections 9 times out of 10. 

For university-owned computers, IT will be responsible for addressing any concerns of computer compromise.