While the internet can be fun and extremely useful, harmful computer viruses can enter a computer’s hard drive through the internet, deleting files or using email to send junk mail to others. Following UB’s basic recommendations for internet safety could help keep files safe and private. While computers running the Windows platform are the most susceptible to viruses, all students should be aware of these recommendations and stay informed of UB’s latest virus protection for any platform their computer is running.

Students need to keep their computer’s operating system and other major software up-to-date. Operating systems, along with web browsers contain security holes that can allow viruses onto computers. Students should regularly use tools such as Windows Update (Windows users)  or Software Update (Mac users) on their desktop to close these holes by installing “patches” or software updates from the software developer.  New viruses and malicious codes are always being updated with new ways to break into computer systems, so software developers are constantly updating their security patches to keep up.

Students also need to keep their antivirus software up to date. If a virus does make it onto a computer, an up-to-date antivirus program can detect and disable it before it can do any damage.  UB provides students with the latest in firewall and antivirus software. This software is provided at no additional cost to all students. An updated list of all the software is also available for download.

When a computer is connected to a network, other computers are able to recognize and communicate with that computer’s hard drive, and possibly attempt to infect it.  Using a firewall software program can prevent computers from making these unwanted connections and offer protection from viruses. Some operating systems such as Windows XP, Mac OSX, and UBLinux contain built-in firewalls that should be enabled. For off-campus students using a high-speed connection, it is recommended they check with their local ISP on how to configure their modem to provide the maximum protection. Students should also install UB’s Virtual Private Network software (UBVPN) in order to connect to UB from a personal computer via a secure, encrypted tunnel. The purpose of this tunnel is to be able to securely send data to and from UB while using a UB wireless connection or a non-UB Internet Service Provider, such as Adelphia or Verizon.

For browsing the internet, students should consider using a program such as Firefox, which is a dependable software product that is free of many of the vulnerabilities of the Microsoft Internet Explorer web browser. Some campus services web sites are designed specifically for Microsoft Explorer, so students should not uninstall it from their computers, but use it with caution.

Some operating systems allow users to automatically download and install new security patches and antivirus software when they become available. Students should contact the CIT Help Desk or the staff at UBMicro if they have questions or need help with this feature on their computers.