Anti-virus software protects your computer and Northwestern's networks from viruses, spyware, ransomware, and other malicious software. Anti-virus software scans your computer's applications, programs, and files for known viruses, worms, and other types of malware. New viruses and malware are constantly being created, so your anti-virus software requires constant virus definition updates. Your anti-virus software on your computer should have auto-updates turned on by default.

• You are responsible for the behavior of any personally owned computer that will be connected to the campus network (wired or Wi-Fi). 

• You must take all reasonable precautions, including running antivirus software on your computer and keeping your virus definitions up to date.
  
  

If you do not have computer anti-virus protection, the IT Service Desk recommends using one of the following programs:

• Windows Security (free, built into Windows 10/11)

• Bitdefender (free/paid)

• Kaspersky (paid)

• Sophos Anti-Virus for Mac Home Edition (free)

• Bitdefender (free/paid)

• Kaspersky (paid)