Information Services

*Important Computer Cleaning Policy*

Due to the lack of staff in the Information Services Dept. we will no longer offer free student computer cleaning. We will still fix any student computer that has network connectivity related issues. Below are some utilities students can use to clean and protect their computers.

Utilities

Some tips on keeping your computer clean

Worry about Attachments
In general, be very suspicious of attachments. Never click on attachments (or on popup menus) unless you absolutely know where they come from. If you don't, assume that they carry a virus and will harm your computer.

Anti-virus software
Make sure your computer is running an anti-virus software and that it is up to date. If the software isn't kept up to date then new viruses will be able to infect your computer.

Update Windows Often
Make sure your Windows operating system is up to date by going to Windows Update regularly.
Agree to the disclaimer, and click the "Express" button to see if you need updates.

Eliminate unnecessary start-up programs
Click Start -->Run. In the Open: text box type msconfig. Click the Startup tab. You can eliminate all or some of the items by un-checking them, particularly those that do not appear necessary.

Be considerate of all users by following the College's User Policies
This means no downloading or file sharing of music and videos. These downloads significantly impact the performance of the network, are illegal in most cases, and violate the User Policies. Many of the file sharing programs contain adware/spyware and viruses that compromise the security and functionality of your computer.

Don't download "free" programs
These so-called free programs often contain adware/spyware that install with the program. If you need to install these programs read the End User License Agreement (EULA) carefully to see if the program installs other programs with it. When installing, look at the installation options. Occasionally there are options for selecting not to install the adware with the program. When in doubt look up the program reviews on www.download.com or search in Google to see if it contains spyware.

Our most common problem with student computers is popups/slow computers
Many problems with computers these days are related in some way to ad-ware, spyware, or viruses. Spyware programs slow down your computer, generate popup ads, and send reports of your Internet use back to companies that sell it as market research. They can infect you computer like a virus to the point where the computer will not function as it should. Some anti-spyware programs are actually spyware themselves! When in doubt, look it up. You can also read consumer reviews or download new products from www.download.com. The most important thing to remember when running any of these programs is that they need to be updated and run about once a week to remain effective.