UNCC-HRL ::: HTS ::: Secure My PC

Computer Security Checklist

This basic readiness checklist has been prepared to help you make sure that your computer is in excellent health before you arrive on campus and connect to the ResNet or Road Runner networks.

30 DAYS BEFORE YOUR ARRIVAL

Operating System Check

Make sure you are running a supported and patchable operating system on your computer.

Check to make sure that it is fully patched with all critical and recommended patches .

For Windows based computers, current operating system versions are: Windows 2000, Windows XP Home Edition, and Windows XP Professional Edition. Older versions are no longer supported or patched by Microsoft and should be replaced before coming to campus. Users of Windows XP should be updated through Service Pack 2 (SP 2).

For Apple Macintosh computers, users should be using OS X. Earlier versions should be used with caution and users should consider updating their systems as soon as possible.

Software Checks

Verify that your office automation software is up to date and fully patched (e.g. Microsoft Office).

Verify that your chosen Internet browser is up to date and fully patched.

Verify that any music or media player is up to date and fully patched.

Verify that your chosen instant messengers are up to date and fully patched.

Security Checks

Install and update an anti-virus software package.

Install and update an anti-spyware / anti-malware software package.

Install and update a firewall software package (or activate your built-in firewall).

Networking Checks

You will need to bring a CAT-5 network cable with you. We recommend one that is at least 20 feet long. You can check out this sample from Walmart if you are not sure what to buy.

You will need to make sure that your computer has a network card installed. Most newer model PCs and Macs will already have this installed. The Residence Halls are not wireless, so you must have an ethernet network card in order to connect to the Internet. If your PC doesn't have one of these, and you want to use the network connection in your Residence Hall room, purchase and install a card at this time.

2-3 DAYS BEFORE YOUR ARRIVAL

Final Security Checks

Update your anti-virus software with the latest definitions available.

Update your anti-spyware / anti-malware software with the latest definitions available.

Update your firewall software with the latest definitions available.

Update your operating system with the latest critical updates available, if any.


Secure My PC Home PC Readiness Checklist Routine Maintenance Log Mobile Device Users Test Your Knowledge Anti-Virus Software Anti-Spyware Software Firewall Software Windows Updates Macintosh Updates Office Software Internet Browsers Music Software Instant Messengers SPAM - SPIT - SPIM Phishing & Spoofing Identity Theft Malware E-Mail Security File Sharing System Back-Up	Computer Security Checklist This basic readiness checklist has been prepared to help you make sure that your computer is in excellent health before you arrive on campus and connect to the ResNet or Road Runner networks. 30 DAYS BEFORE YOUR ARRIVAL Operating System Check Make sure you are running a supported and patchable operating system on your computer. Check to make sure that it is fully patched with all critical and recommended patches . For Windows based computers, current operating system versions are: Windows 2000, Windows XP Home Edition, and Windows XP Professional Edition. Older versions are no longer supported or patched by Microsoft and should be replaced before coming to campus. Users of Windows XP should be updated through Service Pack 2 (SP 2). For Apple Macintosh computers, users should be using OS X. Earlier versions should be used with caution and users should consider updating their systems as soon as possible. Software Checks Verify that your office automation software is up to date and fully patched (e.g. Microsoft Office). Verify that your chosen Internet browser is up to date and fully patched. Verify that any music or media player is up to date and fully patched. Verify that your chosen instant messengers are up to date and fully patched. Security Checks Install and update an anti-virus software package. Install and update an anti-spyware / anti-malware software package. Install and update a firewall software package (or activate your built-in firewall). Networking Checks You will need to bring a CAT-5 network cable with you. We recommend one that is at least 20 feet long. You can check out this sample from Walmart if you are not sure what to buy. You will need to make sure that your computer has a network card installed. Most newer model PCs and Macs will already have this installed. The Residence Halls are not wireless, so you must have an ethernet network card in order to connect to the Internet. If your PC doesn't have one of these, and you want to use the network connection in your Residence Hall room, purchase and install a card at this time. 2-3 DAYS BEFORE YOUR ARRIVAL Final Security Checks Update your anti-virus software with the latest definitions available. Update your anti-spyware / anti-malware software with the latest definitions available. Update your firewall software with the latest definitions available. Update your operating system with the latest critical updates available, if any.