The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly of Antivirus Software
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Who needs antivirus
software?
Believe it or not, everyone on Harding’s campus is required
to have current antivirus protection running on their computer. Yes, even Macs must attend to this rule. Why you may ask? The answer has to do with an application you
were required to install called SafeConnect. SafeConnect is not an antivirus program.
SafeConnect checks your computer to see if an antivirus program is
installed and running properly. If your
computer is not meeting those requirements, it will be “quarantined”
and will no longer be able to connect to the internet.
Which antivirus program is
right for me?
Against popular belief, you do not have to
pay money for decent antivirus protection.
I repeat: you do not have to pay
for antivirus protection! There are
several trusted and reliable antiviruses (AV’s) out there which will do the job
just fine.
DormNet interacts with several major AV suppliers
and have compiled a list of the Good, Bad, and the Ugly when it comes to decent
AV’s.
Windows Defender is a free antivirus program that is pre-installed on all Windows 8 devices.
The Good
Windows: Microsoft Security Essentials (free),
McAffee (paid), Kaspersky (paid)
Mac: Sophos
The Bad/The Ugly
Windows: AVG (free), Avast (free), Norton (paid)
Mac: N/A
NOTE: Windows 8 computers are automatically
configured with Windows Defender. It is an excellent antivirus program and it
is not necessary to download additional software.
DISCLAIMER: DormNet does not officially put one AV above another. The commentary here is solely the opinion of the writers.
Frequently Asked
Questions:
Q: I paid for Webroot, but Harding tells me I still
need to install an antivirus for my computer.
Is this true?
A: Unfortunately Webroot does not meet the standards
required by Harding to be a sufficient AV.
You’ll need to install an AV that meets the requirements. (See suggested list of AV above.)
Q: My subscription
just expired on my current AV. What do I
do now?
A: If you don’t plan
on renewing your subscription, please uninstall your current AV and install
another from the list suggested.
Q: So you’re telling
me SafeConnect isn’t an antivirus program?
A: Correct. SafeConnect is NOT an antivirus program.
Q: Macs are supposed
to be really good at not getting viruses.
Why do I need additional protection?
A: In the past this
was true. It takes a lot of money to
make an effective virus. It used to be
before Macs were prominent it wouldn’t be cost effective to make a virus that affects Macs. Now that Macs are more
widely used, there is a larger interest in making viruses that target
Macs. It is not because Macs are
magically immune to viruses.
Q: I’m confused. I have antivirus protection, but I still have
popups and my computer is running slow.
What’s the deal?
A: Antiviruses are
only as good as user. If you’ve failed
to keep your AV up-to-date, or have accidentally downloaded malware/spyware,
then your computer doesn’t stand a chance.
We suggest bringing your computer to the DormNet Help Desk so we can help you get
your computer up and running normally again.
Have additional questions or concerns? Call the DormNet Help Desk at
501-279-4545. Our office is open Monday through Thursday, 11
AM – 10 PM and Friday 11 AM – 5 PM.
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