For ACC-owned computers, we currently have a site license for Norton AntiVirus. Instructions for downloading and installing this on ACC computers are available. (This link won't work outside ACC.) If you are not able to do it yourself, the computer technicians at your campus will do it for you. Last year, ACC's site license was for McAfee VirusScan. Many of us still have that and are entitled to updates on it.

The most important part, however, is to make sure that you update the virus definitions of your program regularly.

There is a difference between upgrading a program (getting a newer version) and updating the virus-definition files. When you buy a virus-protection program, you will be entitled to update the virus-definition files free for a certain length of time (a year or two) and maybe for a small fee after that. You must update these often -- preferably once a month -- to be protected.

YOU need to learn to update the virus definitions. I recommend that you do this directly from the company's website and do not rely on others to help you. You probably won't do it often enough if you wait for others to help. Norton makes new files available weekly. If you miss a few weeks, you don't have to go back and pick them up. I understand that the latest update includes the information from the previous ones. Here's how I do it.

When do you need to upgrade your program? There's no one answer to that. Certainly, if your company isn't offering regular virus-definition updates for your program, it's time to get a new one. Also, if you are currently using a virus protection program that doesn't claim to scan email, for example, and you're using email, then it's time to get a newer version. Since ACC always has a site license for some virus-checking program, you might as well upgrade whenever a new version is available.

For your home use, you can buy such programs for $50 or under. Three major ones are Norton AntiVirus, McAfee VirusScan, and FProt. Be sure that you buy a program you will update regularly.

ACC has some information about viruses available. (This link won't work outside ACC.) This includes information about the latest viruses and links to outside sources with additional information about viruses.

MP's Virus Protection Info | MP's Internet Hints | MP's Home Page |

Last updated May 7, 2000. Mary Parker