Information Security

Index

• Tips for Home Computer Health and Security
• Password Security
• Security Policy
• Anti-Virus Software Information
• Security Resources

Tips for Home Computer Health and Security

The following set of tips will help keep your home computer healthy and running smoothly, as well as reduce your exposure to viruses or other security breaches.

For Windows PCs (Windows XP, all versions)

1. Run Windows Update frequently to make sure your computer is up-to-date
   • To run Windows Update, go to http://windowsupdate.microsoft.com/
   • Follow the instructions to scan your computer for updates and download the latest updates.
   • To configure Windows update to run automatically, visit: http://www.microsoft.com/athome/security/protect/windowsxp/updates.aspx
2. Install antivirus software on your computer
   • Symantec Norton Antivirus is recommended
   • Buy online through the CSUCI Bookstore at http://www.csuci.bkstr.com/
3. Configure your Firewall software
   • Built in to Windows XP, but you must enable “Internet Connection Firewall”
   • Instructions at: http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/using/networking/learnmore/icf.mspx
4. Don’t open email messages from people you don’t know or trust
   • This is most often how viruses spread and how people gain access to your computer.
   • Also, do not open any files attached to an email unless you know what it is, even if it appears to come from a dear friend or someone you know. Many viruses can replicate themselves and spread through email.

For Mac PCs (OS X, all versions)

1. Run Software Update to make sure your computer is up-to-date
   • Go to the Apple menu and select “System Preferences…”
   • Under the System category, select “Software Update.”
   • Make sure the “Check for updates” box is checked, and specify the frequency in the drop-down menu. Check the “Download important updates” in the background box.
   • Select “Check Now” to run Software Update.
   • Software Update will show a list of updates available for your computer. Check which updates you would like to install and choose the “Install” button.
   • Further instructions available at: http://docs.info.apple.com/article.html?artnum=106704
2. Install antivirus software on your computer
   • Symantec Norton Antivirus is recommended.
   • Buy online through the CSUCI Bookstore at http://www.csuci.bkstr.com/
3. Configure a Firewall on your Mac
   • Instructions available at: http://docs.info.apple.com/article.html?artnum=151615
4. Don’t open email messages from people you don’t know or trust
   • This is most often how viruses spread and how people gain access to your computer.
   • Also, do not open any files attached to an email unless you know what it is, even if it appears to come from a dear friend or someone you know. Many viruses can replicate themselves and spread through email.