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Anti-Virus Support

Computer viruses, worms, and other malicious software can destroy important data, compromise security, and generate a large volume of network traffic. Infected computers can have a disastrous effect on UMKC's network and on the campus's ability to accomplish core business activities and instructional functions. In order to protect the campus computing infrastructure, users must have antivirus software installed on updated on their computers.

Microsoft System Center Endpoint Protection is automatically installed on all campus Windows computers. It is also the preferred antivirus client for university-owned Macs. If you are having problems with your installation, please contact the IS Technology Support Center or your IT Liaison.

Students living in the residence halls will need antivirus installed in order to access the network.

Microsoft offers Windows Defender, a free consumer anti-virus product. It protects against viruses, spyware and other malicious software and is included with any installation of Windows 8 or 10.

There are other antivirus companies that will provide free antivirus software for non-commercial use. Examples of these include:

• AVG Antivirus for Windows and Mac
• Avast Home Edition  for Windows
• Antivir Personal Edition Classic for Windows and Mac
• ClamXav for Mac

While UMKC does not endorse any of these companies, you should be aware of your options for free virus protection if you do not wish to purchase antivirus software. Alternatively, you could purchase antivirus software from a vendor online or at a local electronics store. Some options include:

• Symantec for Windows and Mac
• McAfee for Windows and Mac
• Trend Micro for Windows and Mac

All antivirus software makes use of virus definitions. These definitions allow antivirus software to recognize viruses. Since new viruses (and their variants) are released almost daily, it is important to regularly update your virus definitions. Most software programs allow you to schedule updates on a daily basis, which we recommend. Please note that campus computers are automatically configured to update at regular intervals, but it's very important that these options are configured for personally owned systems too.

Most antivirus software will allow you to schedule weekly or monthly scans. By scheduling scans at regular intervals, you better protect yourself from new viruses. Please note that campus computers are automatically configured to scan at regular intervals, but it's very important that these options are configured for personally owned systems too.