Computing Security

Protect Yourself, Your work, and the University of Washington

Practicing secure computing is everyone's responsibility. Help protect yourself and your UW colleagues from computer viruses and intruders by learning more about security and following the "Basic security" steps below.

Security Basics

Every computer connecting to UW networks needs to be well managed, including yours, to protect us all.

• Basic security: Steps everyone should take:
  1. Protect your password
  2. Use anti-virus software such as McAfee VirusScan or Virex
     • Using Windows Update for automatic updates
  3. Update and patch your software including your operating system and browser
  4. Scan your computer regularly for spyware
  5. Use secure email, browser, and ftp software
  6. Follow secure computing practices each time you use a computer
• Why think about security? To protect yourself, your work, and the UW.
• Your role in managing your computer and the four steps of good computer management
• Comply with UW, state, and federal rules and laws