Protect and Clean your Computer

If your computer cannot access the Internet, use a computer that CAN connect to print out these instructions and download files to a CD or memory stick.

Please complete ALL Steps.

These basic steps will remove viruses and most spyware from your computer. Some infections are so embedded that additional expertise may be needed to remove them manually.   If after following these instructions, your computer still exhibits signs of infection, you may be required to make an appointment with IT-User Services to clean your system for a charge. Please direct any questions regarding these instructions to the IT Help Center at 831-6000.

1.  Activate the Mac OS X firewall.
 

2.  Use up-to-date McAfee Anti-Virus Software.

• Install UD VIREX and scan for viruses.
   

3.  Set Software Updates to check for updates daily.

• Microsoft Office Suite:  Microsoft AutoUpdate for Mac can be set to check for updates automatically.
  Open an Office program. On the Help menu, click Check for Updates and set this to occur Automatically.
   

4.  Setup Desktop Security.

• Disable File Sharing.
   
• Password-protect all accounts on your computer.
   

5.  Secure your wireless access.

• Wireless security risks.
   
• Using Personal NAT Routers in UD Residence Halls.
   
• Lock down your personal wireless access point.
   

Ongoing Maintenance Tasks

• The following tasks are now set to run automatically:
  • Mac Operating System Updates.
  • UD VIREX will automatically check weekly for virus definition updates.
    • A user can change any of the Virex preferences by selecting the Preferences icon and clicking More Options.
      To make changes, click the padlock and type in the Mac's administrator password.
       
• After installing any new software, run Disk First Aid.
• Backup Important Data:  From Apple Support, see  Time Machine.

Documentation Reference

• UD's Code of the Web
• Responsible Use of the Campus Network
• Security 101 for Mac computers.