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Safe Computing
 Be
a responsible computer user. Here are some guidelines to help
keep your computer and the Otterbein network virus-free:
- Use your anti-virus software. All computers
connected to the Otterbein network are required to have
anti-virus software. Click here
if you need anti-virus software. Resident students, wired
into the residence hall network, who need anti-virus software
can use McAfee's VirusScan free of charge (contact the Student
Computing Manager for more information).
- Up-to-date virus definitions.
Not only is anti-virus software required for all
computers connected to the Otterbein network, but
users are also required to update it (Otterbein-owned
computers are updated automatically). Most anti-virus
software provide daily or weekly updates of definitions
(the rules with which the software looks for and
repairs viruses). Make sure you download virus definitions
at least once a week! Those with
Otterbein's FREE Mcafee will receive updates automatically.
- Scan weekly. Run a complete virus
scan of your computer (all drives, all files) at
least once a week.
- Remove viruses as soon as they are found.
If you learn that your computer is infected with
a virus, use your anti-virus software to remove the
virus (and possibly repair any damage it may have
done). If you are having difficulty removing the
virus, disconnect your computer from the network
and contact the Help desk at 614-823-1060.
- Run Stinger. Stinger
is a free program you can download that searches
for the most common viruses and removes them from
your computer. Click
here to download Stinger.
- Stay patched. Once your system
is virus-free, it is critical to keep your operating
system and key components (such as the web browser
and media player) up to date. If you're using Windows,
go to windowsupdate.microsoft.com
to download and install all of the security patches.
Windows XP users should enable automatic Windows
updates. If you're using another operating system
(such as Linux or MacOS) check with those vendors'
web sites to receive the latest patches.
- Set your web browser security setting to Medium.
In Internet Explorer, click on Tools/Internet Options and
then click the Security tab. Click on the Internet globe
and move the slider on the left to Medium. The
Intranet setting can be set to Medium-Low or Medium-High.
Then click the OK button.
- Surf safely. Some unscrupulous
web sites (especially porn and pirate software sites)
can install Active X controls and other software
on your computer without your knowledge. One solution
is to use Netscape
or Firefox
which are less susceptible to intrusive software.
- Don't share. Some viruses are
spread through file sharing systems such as KaZaA,
iMesh and Grokster. If you share, you are making
your computer vulnerable to viruses and other intrusions.
- Install cautiously. Do not install
install software, web page plug-ins or Active X controls
downloaded from the web unless you are very confident
that it is virus-free. You are also urged not to
install browser toolbars, Outlook add-ons
and other programs that contain spyware, adware and
viruses.
- Don't install warez and pirated software.
Not only is it illegal, but many pirated CDs and
floppies contain viruses.
- When in doubt, ask for help. The computer
genius down the hall may not know every everything about
viruses. If you need help, call the Help Desk (614-823-1060).
We'll be happy to get you on the road to being virus-free.
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