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Anti-Virus Requirement
Over 10,000 computers are now connected to the campus network through the residential computer network. Unprotected computers contribute to the impact of attacks by computer viruses, worms and other malicious programs. On-Campus Housing (OCH) requires all residents with Windows, Macintosh and Linux operating systems to use and regularly update anti-virus software on their computer(s). OCH is providing Sophos anti-virus software as part of your housing contract. OCH took this measure to reduce risks to the UCLA data network and its users.
Updating Anti-Virus
If you cannot update your anti-virus program because you cannot get connected to the Internet, then try this before contacting STC.
- Go to the nearest lounge to access the wireless network.
- Login using your UCLA Login ID and update your anti-virus definitions.
- Go back to your room and try to register again on the residential network.
Contact STC for assistance with your system updates if you still cannot update or need help removing the virus.
Please be aware that even with the best protection, it is possible for your computer to get infected with a virus. Should this occur, you will find your internet access severely limited until the Student Technology Center (STC) can verify that the computer system is clean of all viruses. If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact the STC.
Note: STC will have a proactive role in virus prevention by providing you with anti-virus software, but due to the nature of viruses, you may still get infected. In such a case, the STC cannot be held responsible for damage, loss of data or repair fees.
Additional Responsibilities
- Install any recommended security patches for the operating system and applications.
- Use a firewall. For Windows XP and Vista, use the one provided with the operating system.
- Exercise caution when opening attachments. Never open an attachment unless it is expected.
- Exercise caution when downloading files from the Internet. Only download from reputable sites.
- Exercise caution when installing files from removable media such as CDs. Even "shrink-wrapped" software has been known to contain viruses.
- If your computer is known to be infected, remove it from the network until it can be disinfected. (Contact the STC if you need assistance.)
- If the STC responds to a virus incident and finds that the infected desktop system is not running virus protection software, then the individual will be required to install OCH provided Sophos Anti-virus software to prevent future incidents.
- Read the AUP (Appropriate Use Policy). Allowing a computer system to become infected puts other UCLA systems at risk.
- If your computer is reported or found to have been infected, your network connection will be quarantined and you will need to either remove the infection or bring your computer to the STC for disinfection.
Anti-Virus Options
On-Campus Housing (OCH) and the Student Technology Center (STC) requires all computers to have a real-time scanning Anti-Virus software program installed and running. This software must be kept updated with a valid subscription. As part of the basic housing contract, OCH provides Sophos anti-virus software. Computers having Windows XP Service Pack 2 or Windows Vista are able to choose their own anti-virus software or install the OCH provided Sophos. (Note: Windows XP users must have Service Pack 2 installed. At this time Service Pack 3 for Windows XP and Service Pack 1 for Windows Vista are not required on the residential network.)
Service Pack 2 is required because it provides significant security enhancements. Please note that Service Pack 2 installs only on machines with a valid product key.
Basic Security Terminology
- Trojan Horse: A malicious, security-breaking program that is disguised as something benign, such as a directory lister, archiver, game or other software.
- Virus: A cracker program that searches out other programs and "infects" them by embedding a copy of itself in them, so that they become Trojan horses.
- Worm: A program that propagates itself over a network, reproducing itself as it goes.
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