Antivirus
It is important to have antivirus software installed on your computer to prevent infection by viruses, worms and spyware etc. Viruses can spread via the Internet, chat facilities (such as MSN Messenger), email attachments, infected files on CD's, USB sticks, websites etc.
As viruses can cause many problems on your computer you should always make sure that you have backup copies of your files so that you can recover your data should you have problems.
- What is a virus? - including spyware, adware and virus hoaxes
- Antivirus software - including installing, updating and configuring
- Getting rid of viruses
- Stay clean - how to protect your computer from viruses
- Safe Computing - tips on how to use your computer safely to prevent viruses
- Latest virus news (external link)
- List of all download and updates - useful for users who know how to set up and update antivirus software (there are no instructions on this page)
- Glossary of terms
- Useful links - to other antivirus information
If you use the Halls of Residence Network (Hornet) your computer will be disconnected if it has a virus and you will have to pay to be reconnected. See the Hornet website for more details.
Basic steps to prevent viruses
- Install antivirus software
- Keep it up-to-date with the latest virus definitions - daily
- Regularly perform a full system scan to check for viruses
- Ensure the latest Microsoft security patches are installed via Windows Update and your firewall is switched on