What is a Virus?

A computer virus is any one of thousands of programs that can invade computer systems and perform a variety of functions ranging from annoying (e.g., popping up messages as a joke) to dangerous (e.g., deleting files, destroying your hard disk, or opening up your system to hackers). Trojan horses or worms are specific types of clandestine programs (called "malicious code" but often loosely categorized as viruses) and can be just as dangerous. For the sake of simplicity, we'll refer to them all as viruses.

Prevention

Prevention starts with ICU which stands for Install, Configure, and Update your anti-virus software. You can think of it this way. If you do not ICU now, your computer will be in ICU (Intensive Care Unit) after a virus hits your computer. Install an anti-virus program.

Student/Employee-Owned Computers

Current, updated anti-virus software is required to gain access to the campus network.

Download AVG Anti-Virus Free Edition.

University-Owned Computers

TW is licensed to use Symantec Norton anti-virus software on university-owned machines. For assistance, contact the Technology Help Desk.