KIS Security Information for Faculty/Staff on Campus Desktop Configuration
The following categories constitute the different areas that require attention to keep your computer secure from viruses, hackers and other security threats.
Webroot SpySweeper - For virtually everyone surfing the Internet, Spyware is a nuisance,
but if you do not detect spyware on your PC, it can lead to much more serious
consequences like identity theft. Because of the threats that malware pose, a
spyware remover installed on your PC is essential. KIS evaluated different anti-spyware software and determined that SpySweeper was the best enterprise solution for Kellogg. For more information on Spyware and Webroot SpySweeper please see this webpage.
Windows
Update - Microsoft frequently releases updates to the Microsoft Windows
operating systems and Office programs. The updates fix critical vulnerabilities
in the Microsoft software that permit a virus or hacker to gain access to computers.
As part of KIS's new security enhancements all on-campus desktop computers will
check for new updates at 3:00 AM every night. If there are new updates, the
computer will automatically install the update and restart. Please remember
to leave your computer on overnight. To ensure that your computer has the latest
updates and is properly updating, go to http://www.windowsupdate.com
(note: your computer will only install the Critical Updates automatically).
KIS recommends logging off when you are not in the office so that applications
and unsaved data which are running do not cause a problem with the update or
if the computer reboots. If you do not prefer logging off, please make sure
all programs are closed. If you decide to log off this action will not affect
Remote Desktop or file sharing from off-campus.
For instructions on how to Log Off, click
here.
Symantec
Anti-Virus - Symantec Anti-Virus is a program that detects
and cleans computer viruses that compromise security. As part of KIS's new security
enhancements, KIS will fully manage Symantec on all computers that are constantly
plugged into the network. When the Anti-Virus software is up-to-date, it will
quarantine new viruses, restricting their quick spread and limiting the opportunity
for users to click on harmful attachments.
Windows
XP Firewall - A firewall prevents Internet traffic that could form a
security hazard from accessing your computer. On Windows XP machines at Kellogg,
KIS will be turning on the built-in firewall.
SSL
Security on Northwestern Email Servers - SSL is a secure
method for authenticating your email password. To configure your email to use
SSL please select one of the following links and follow the brief instructions:
Configuring Eudora to use SSL
Configuring Outlook to use SSL
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Updated: 7/26/2004