| All campus computers are equipped with an antivirus program. |
If you have adware, malware, ransomware, or any other kind of virus on your computer, there are trusted programs available for purchase/free download to rid your machine of the infectious viruses.
Be wary when selecting a program, since some programs are actually viruses in disguise, designed to prey upon people's desire for antivirus protection.
Antivirus for University-issued Devices (applies to employees only)
All BYU-Idaho issues devices come pre-installed with antivirus software. If you're concerned that your device does not have this software, please contact the IT Service Desk, so we can help. Please note: some devices still have older software, such as Sophos installed. However, all employees are welcome to uninstall Sophos, if wanted.
Quality antivirus software
- Provides frequent version and definition updates to combat the latest threats.
- Consistently wins awards from industry-leading publications.
- Has a dedicated, round-the-clock research team devoted to tracking virus evolution.
- Is backed by an innovative company with a solid business reputation.
- Does not advertise in pop-up ads or on questionable Web sites, such as gambling or pornographic sites.
- Does not appear before you download it.
NOTE: Google the product you are considering. If results such as “remove [product name] appear,” it is probably a questionable application.
Recommended antivirus for Windows PC
While there are many kinds of antivirus software out there that are safe to use, here are some examples of safe software to look into:
- Sophos Home
- Avast Free Antivirus
- AVG Free
- Norton Antivirus for PC
- MalwareBytes
Recommended antivirus for Mac
While there are many kinds of antivirus software out there that are safe to use, here are some examples of safe software to look into:
- Sophos Home
- Avast Free Mac Antivirus
- ESET Cyber Security Pro
- Norton Antivirus for Mac
- MalwareBytes
| Some free versions of these antivirus tools will only scan for viruses when prompted to. Therefore, you must be diligent and proactive when using free versions. Be sure to read what each tool does and doesn't do for "free." In some cases, you might opt for the paid version based on your needs or expectations. |
Your computer might be infected if
- Your computer is running slower than usual.
- You receive errors in your browser (e.g., Safari, Chrome, Firefox) when on the Internet.
- Your computer crashes often and unexpectedly.
- You are receiving peculiar error messages or pop-up advertisements.
How threats get on your computer
Your computer is vulnerable when:
- You download free software or illegal content (music, videos, programs) from file-sharing and torrent websites.
- You open unsafe emails.
- You visit unsafe websites.
- You use infected thumb drives.
How often you should back up your computer files
Anything can happen in the world of technology. It is vital that you back up your files constantly in order to prevent the loss of important documents. You can back up your files by saving them in many different forms, including:
- Cloud-based file storage services
- External hard drives, or thumb drives
BYU-Idaho offers OneDrive services to students. See Accessing OneDrive and Transferring Drive Files to OneDrive for more details.
| Thumb drives can get infected with viruses. Therefore, be wary of the things you plug into your device. |
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