Viruses

North Central College uses Sophos for its anti-virus software. You can install this software from the IConnect DVD - free of charge!

Computer Viruses-How to Limit Your Risk

North Central College students, faculty and staff have been exceptionally fortunate on campus in terms of computer viruses and we would like to keep it that way. You can reduce your risk of a virus on your PC by:

  • Being leery of any attachment, especially those ending with a '.vbs' extension
  • Opening attachments with a viewer when possible as the viewer offers additional protections against viruses
  • Storing important files using network file space, your F-Drive. These network systems, are backed up on a regular basis and thus can be restored in case of a problem.
  • Keeping your virus protection software on your home computer up-to-date. On campus, we use Sophos on the servers to protect the network.
I have a virus on my computer. What do I do?

Many viruses send themselves out from the computers they reside on. These viruses must be dealt with as, according to the Acceptable Use Policy, you are responsible for any information going out to the network from your computer.

It is essential that every computer has an anti-virus software installed. Sophos, the anti-virus software that NCC uses, is on the iConnect DVD and is free. If you have lost or misplaced your iConnect DVD and need another copy, please stop by the ITS Help Desk.

If you have a virus on your laptop, the ResNet Consultant will be able to help you. Bring your laptop, power cord, and system restore discs to the ITS Help Desk. After it is determined that the ResNet can remove the virus from your pc, you will need to go to the Business Office (located on the 3rd floor of Old Main) and purchase a Premium ResNet voucher. The fee for this service is $50.00. After the voucher is purchased, bring it to the ITS Help Desk. The ResNet Consultant will back up your files, format your hard drive, then restore your files for you.

What is a virus?

A virus is a program written by someone who wants to play a prank or is a cracker. It is designed to do two things: replicate itself and perform a devious task. The replication takes place in the PC's memory. The program first loads into memory, then writes itself whenever it detects that the operating system is about to access a writeable media disc.

Is my computer safe from viruses?

Your computer is safe from viruses only if you're careful. All students must install and use an anti-virus program, such as Sophos. North Central offers this free anti-virus software that is included on the IConnect DVD. Computers that send virus laden files are disconnected from the network and not granted network access until the problem is resolved.