Before Connecting
Computer Protection is essential for use of the UConn network. You must have an updated and secured computer by completion and maintaining the following steps. This will help ensure that your computer is ready for use at UConn. For detailed directions click on the link in each section called “ to Knowledgebase” if you are unsure how to complete the step.
Note: Our documentation is currently Windows heavy but please see each section and scroll down for Apple based directions where applicable. We do not currently support any other operating systems so please maintain your computer respectively as outlined below.
Index
Step 1 - Account Passwords
Step 2 - Antivirus
Step 3 - Anti-Malware (suggested Ad-Aware & Spybot)
Step 4 - Operating System Updates (plus Service Pack Updates)
Step 5 - Firewall
Step 6 - After Connecting to Network
Step 1 - Account Passwords
Passwords are necessary for an account that is used to log on to your computer. This prevents hackers and viruses from using this vulnerability to get into your computer. Make sure you use a strong password with at least one number and special character (!@#%$) that cannot be easily guessed. Do not use passwords such as 1234, abcd, UConn, etc.
The best way to set these are in Safe Mode. Some accounts only show up in "Safe Mode".
Step 2 - Antivirus
Symantec Antivirus is provided to UConn students and you may download it for freeif you do not already have an Antivirus program.
An antivirus program is necessary to keep your computer protected continually from viruses that can come out daily. These viruses can cause devastating losses for documents and files on your computer.
Step 3 - Anti-Malware (suggested Ad-Aware & Spybot)
Anti-spyware programs are necessary to keep your computer clean of spyware and adware that may cause pop-ups and cause your computer to work slowly. These issues can cause your computer to send spam and junk to others unknowingly. They can also be gateways which allow viruses to infect your machine.
- Run scans in Safe Mode of AdAware, Spybot and Antivirus programs.
Step 4 - Operating System Updates (plus Service Pack Updates)
Service Pack Updates are packaged windows updates; when numerous updates need to be made to an operating system they come out as a bundle called a service pack. Most new computers may already come with the latest service pack so check before installing this.
(In a later step you will continue installing more windows updates that are needed to patch new holes and vulnerabilities in the operating system that are found from time to time.)
- Disclaimer: Services Packs have been known to cause problems for computers but we have found this to be true only when the computer is already infected with spyware and/or viruses. Therefore, we recommend performing anti-virus and anti-spyware scans prior to installing Service Packs to make sure your computer is clean.
Step 5 - Firewall
A firewall helps protect your computer from intrusions and viruses that may scan your computer to find a vulnerability to get into your computer.
Step 6 - After Connecting to Network
You will need to connect to the internet to finish updating your computer. CDs used for this purpose may not include the newest updates for the programs you previously installed.
- You can download Windows Updates by going to Internet Explorer, Tools, and then Windows Update.
- You can download Symantec updates through the program
- You can download Spybot updates through the program
- You can download AdAware updates through the program
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