UW-Madison - Personal Computer Security Checklist
In order to keep your computer secure and prevent any infections, we've compiled this checklist of simple steps to take in order to secure your personal computer. If you require assistance at any time, feel free to ask the staff at the DoIT Onsite Help Desk. If you're completing this checklist at home and have questions, call (608)264-HELP.
Keep your operating system updated
Install and update anti-virus software
- For Windows, Microsoft Defender (formerly known as Windows Defender) is a great free option that comes pre-installed with every copy of Windows 11. Here is how to activate it: Windows (Microsoft) Defender - Enabling Antivirus and Threat Protection & Windows Firewall.
- For MacOS, Trend Micro is available for free for faculty and staff. For installation, please see Trend Micro - Installing Trend Micro AV on Your Personally Owned macOS Device. Students, please see Security - Available Antivirus Software for Personally Owned Devices.
- Install and update anti-spyware protection (Windows Only)
- Anti-Spyware software is useful to have in case a virus breaches your first lines of defense and infects your computer. Anti-Spyware software does not scan your computer continuously (like an Anti-Virus program would), but rather scans on command.
- Spybot - Search and Destroy
- Each Anti-Spyware program has an "update" feature that does not update automatically - you have to manually update it yourself before you run a scan. Make sure to update your Anti-Spyware first, then run a scan.
Make sure your firewall is up and running
Check the strength of your passwords
- Are your passwords strong? Remember to strengthen ALL your passwords, not just your NetID password!
Uninstall file sharing software
Secure your important data
- Back up any important data for safekeeping. Check out Computing at UW - Backing Up Your Personal Data to view various options for preserving your data.
- Keep critical hard-copy data stored in a fireproof safe.
- Download and install Spirion (Identity Finder) to locate personal information stored on your machine.