Tech Guides (IT Governance)

Antivirus Software Tips

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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 peoples desire for antivirus protection.


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.




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. Do not trust mysterious thumb drives.

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