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Symantec Endpoint Protection (Anti-virus)

Computer Viruses and Protecting Your Computer

A computer virus is a program, usually hidden within another file, that can cause harm by infecting files, corrupting system processes or exploiting a vulnerability of an unpatched operating system and becoming compromised by an outside force. A virus is capable of spreading through the network to your computer via e-mail and shared media such as your hard drive or removable disk.

You can prevent most viruses by running anti-virus software and most importantly, keeping the anti-virus software updated. MU licenses the Symantec Endpoint Protection (Anti-virus) client for use by faculty, staff and students.

About Symantec Endpoint Protection (Anti-virus)

Anti-virus software is essential to all computer users, especially those connected to the Internet. The Symantec Endpoint Protection (Anti-virus) client is required for all computers that connect to Mizzou TigerNet. The Symantec Endpoint Protection (Anti-virus) client can be downloaded at no charge from the Software Distribution Site. For installation and scanning instructions, please refer to the IT KnowledgeBase.

The anti-virus client requires periodic updates to protect against new viruses. These updates, also known as virus definitions, are available at no cost. Set your computer to receive automatic updates, and the software will protect your computer from new threats. Virus definition updates are key to the secure operation of your computer.

Virus infection can damage your computer and may result in costly repairs and/or loss of data. Also, should your computer become infected you are at risk of losing your network privileges.

Using Symantec Endpoint Protection (Anti-virus)

Install Symantec Endpoint Protection (Anti-virus) on your computer. If you have purchased another anti-virus program or purchased a computer with an anti-virus program already installed, you must remove all other anti-virus programs before you install this client.

Once installed, adhere to these practices:

  • Make sure these virus definitions are kept current.
  • Set the anti-virus client to automatically download virus definitions so you don't forget.
  • Avoid file-sharing programs. They make your computer highly vulnerable to viruses.
  • Periodically scan your hard drive for viruses.

If you have a spyware problem on your machine, there are a number of free utilities available on the Internet to help you manage it; Spybot Search & Destroy, Ad-Aware, and Trend Micro are a few of the most common. If these don't help, you might need to have your operating system reinstalled to make sure all spyware and viruses are completely removed. TigerTech in the Student Center/Brady Commons offers a service to reinstall operating systems. Visit www.mutigertech.com for more information.

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Revised August 11, 2009