Security
When students register their computer on the network, we require that they have antivirus software that is up-to-date, and the latest security patches are installed on their computer. However, the antivirus definitions and the security patches will soon be out-dated, because there are always new viruses and security risks being created in order to compromise computers.
Security Recommendations
We recommend you take the following measures to keep your computer secure. Click the title for more information and detailed instructions.
- Stay current on updates
- Keep your antivirus software up-to-date
- Set secure passwords
- Disable File Sharing
- Use the firewall
A firewall is a piece of software or hardware that can help protect your computer against hacker attacks, such as computer viruses. A firewall helps to screen out many kinds of malicious Internet traffic before it can reach your computer.
Windows 10 Account Passwords
- Click the Settings icon, and then click the Change PC Settings.
- In the PC Settings screen, click the Users category
- Click Change Your Password. Click Create a Password to make a new password rather than update an existing one.
- Type your old password into the “Current Password” box, then your new password beneath it. If you are using “Create a Password,” type the desired password into the New Password text box. Then retype the same characters into the Retype Password text box below it.
Mac Account Passwords
- Set the “Security” preferences in System Preferences so a password is required to wake from sleep or from the screen saver; this will keep others from using an unattended Mac.
- Do not use the same account name and password on your Mac that you use to log on to other campus services.
- Never create a guest account, anonymous login, or an account with blank or obvious password.
- Select strong passwords which are not easily guessed. Keep them secret; don’t send them in e-mail or write them down where people might find them. Change them regularly.
Disable File Sharing
- Windows has a file and printer sharing option that is enabled by default on your computer. While it can be a useful for some environments where this type of sharing is needed, it can be detrimental to your computer’s security when you are on the residential network.
- With File and Printer Sharing enabled, any person or virus may be able to access your computer without your knowledge. As most student will not need this feature, we strongly recommend you disable this function.
Windows 7
- Click Start > Control Panel > Network and Sharing Center
- In the panel on the left, click Change advanced sharing settings, and then click the arrow next to Home or Work
- Check the following settings: Network Discovery: Off. File and Printer Sharing: Off.
- Click Save Changes
Wndows 8
- Swipe in from the right edge of the screen, click Settings > Change PC settings
- Click Network > Connections, and click your network connection (Most likely WWUwireless-Secure)
- Turn off Find devices and content
Windows Firewall
Windows 7
- Click Start > Control Panel > System and Security > Windows Firewall
- Click “Turn Windows firewall on or off” on the left side of the screen
- Make sure both boxes are checked to “Turn on Windows Firewall.”
Windows 8
- Click Start > Control Panel
- In the left pane, click Turn Windows Firewall on or off
- Click Turn on Windows Firewall under each network location that you want to help protect, and then click OK
Mac Firewall
Mac OS X has a built in firewall. Follow these instructions to ensure this firewall is turned on.
- Go to Applications > System Preferences
- Under “Personal“, click on “Security & Privacy“
- Click on the tab labeled “Firewall“
- Click “Turn On Firewall” to enable your firewall.