Tech Desk/Student Technology - Antivirus How-to's
Tips for using your antivirus software
Students living in the residence halls with computers running Windows may choose to use any anti-virus program recognized by Clean Access (list here), and we recommend that students living off campus install antivirus software as well.
The information on this page does not apply to Apple computers.
How do I know if I have an antivirus program installed?
Click on the [Start] menu, and choose "Programs..." or "All Programs". Look through the list for an antivirus program. Norton Antivirus may be inside a folder named "Norton", "Norton Internet Security", or "Symantec". McAfee VirusScan may be inside a folder named "Network Associates".
If you don't see an antivirus product anywhere in the list of programs, you probably don't have one installed.
Where can I get an antivirus product?
You have several options for purchasing an antivirus product. You can:
- Download a copy of an antivirus product from the provider's web site. A list of antivirus providers (with links to their websites) is included on this page. Many products must be purchased before downloading, but there are some FREE products on the list as well.
- Purchase a copy of an antivirus product at a discount from CDWG.com.
- Purchase a copy of an antivirus product from the Augsburg Bookstore's website.
- Purchase a copy of an antivirus product from your favorite retail store.
How do I install a new antivirus program?
Follow the instructions provided with your product. If you have trouble installing the product, you might need to remove older antivirus products from your computer. (Not all antivirus products "play nice" with each other).
To remove the previous program, find it in the "Add/Remove Programs" control panel and click "Remove".
How do I know if my antivirus subscription is valid?
Open your antivirus program. Most programs will automatically display a "Status Screen" that shows information about the protection on your computer. This screen may show your subscription status.
If the status screen does not show the status of your subscription, use the Update feature of your product to begin the update process. If your subscription is no longer valid, the update process will not complete and will probably notify you of your subscription status.
Note: "Corporate" versions, such as Symantec Corporate or McAfee VirusScan Enterprise, do not require individual subscriptions because the subscription is purchased by a company or school for the exclusive use of their constituents. In most cases, a corporate version licensed by your parent's company cannot be used on your personal computer. Likewise, a corporate version installed by your previous educational institution is not licensed for use once you leave that school. Check with the company or school to find out if you are allowed to use the program. If you're not sure, it's probably best to purchase your own copy.
How do I renew my subscription?
Check the website of your antivirus provider for instructions. In many products, the "Status Screen" that appears when you open the program will contain a link to begin the renewal process.
How do I update my virus definitions?
Open your antivirus program. Most programs will display a "Status Screen" when you open them. Look for a button or link labeled "Update". If you're not able to find this button or link, check the website of your antivirus provider for instructions.
How do I scan my computer for viruses?
Open your antivirus program. Most programs will display a "Status Screen" when you open them. Look for a button or link labeled "Scan" or "Check for problems". If you're not able to find this button or link, check the website of your antivirus provider for instructions. What do I do if my antivirus program finds viruses?
It's a good idea to allow your antivirus program to remove or fix any problems it finds. Your program will walk you through the removal process. If there are things your program finds, but cannot remove, try the tips on our Virus Cleaning page.
