Network Security
Student Computing Services takes Network Security very seriously, and as such, we offer resources
to help secure the computers on WSU's network and promote proactive computer security for all of
our users.
If you use the internet, you should follow basic common sense security practices:
- Do not open email attachements from strangers, or if the email is unexpected
- Do not click links in Instant Messenger programs if the URL is suspicious
- Third-party browsers such as Firefox or Opera are available and may suffer less vulnerabilities
- Routinely check for software and security updates for your operating system and software
- Keep anti-virus definitions up to date and run routine anti-virus scans
- Always have a software or hardware firewall enabled and properly configured
- Uninstall or DON'T install peer-to-peer filesharing clients, as they often bundle viruses or spyware
Viruses
Viruses are malicious programs designed to harm, hijack, or subvert computers or network security.
On a closed network, viruses are able to spread faster and cause more damage. As a result, by
University Policy, all computers on WSU's network must be protected by anti-virus software at
all times. Personal anti-virus software must be kept up-to-date.
In the past, viruses spread through removable media such as floppy disks. The advent of email allowed
viruses to spread across the internet much quicker. However, the modern virus can be spread through
a variety of ways, some of which are invisible to the user. As a result, having up-to-date and automated
anti-virus software is the most important tool to ensuring a properly operating computer.
One of many options for anti-virus software (or Find More):
Spyware
Spyware is a lower class of virus that is designed to either collect personal information from
a computer or allow pop-up advertisements or messages to flood a computer. Spyware very often
drains performance from machines, making them slow or unresponsive.
SCS recommends running some form of anti-spyware software. Some Internet Security suites offer this
protection along with anti-virus protection, however, as of mid-2006, just a few options available for free
are: (or Find More)
Intrusion Protection
Running a software or hardware firewall with proper configuration prevents hackers and more commonly,
viruses from entering your computer and executing malicious code. For most users, running a software
firewall is sufficient, although for extra protection, routers with hardware firewalls will ensure
stronger levels of protection.
Two software firewalls available for use, or Find More:
Security Updates
If software isn't kept up-to-date with security patches, the risk of exploitation or security intrusion
increases dramatically. Most commonly, users of Windows XP will want to run Windows Update and ensure
the proper updates and patches have been installed.
If you have not installed Windows XP Service Pack 2, DO SO NOW
Service Pack 2 is an invaluable security update. Take note that most modern viruses explicitly prevent the user from updating SP2 due to the protection
it offers and enables.
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