Security Top Ten

1 - Register your system
It is essential that your network device be registered using Clarkson University’s NetReg system. To register your device, point your browser to http://netreg.clarkson.edu. Not only is registration a requirement to access the network, but if your computer is determined to be causing a problem on the network, registration will allow OIT to contact you and quickly resolve the problem.


2a - Anti-Virus Software
In addition to registering your computer with Clarkson’s NetReg system, it is required that you install the Clarkson provided version of the Symantec Corporate AntiVirus software. Clarkson provides this software to you, the user, as a service to help prevent the spread of computer viruses on campus.


2b - If anti-virus software catches a virus, call the HelpDesk
If the Symantec AntiVirus software alerts you to the presence of a virus on your computer, even if that virus is quarantined, you should immediately contact the HelpDesk at x4357 or helpdesk@clarkson.edu. This allows OIT both to track the spread of viruses on campus and to send a technician to assist with cleaning your computer (if necessary).


3 - Windows Updates
Keeping your system up-to-date with all of the latest patches from Microsoft is an important part of maintaining a secure computer. Microsoft releases patches on a regular basis, many of which relate to system security. By installing Clarkson’s anti-virus software (2a) you are also instructing your PC to look to an on-campus repository for WindowsUpdates. This helps to ensure that your updating process occurs quickly and without delay.


4 - Adware, Spyware, Malware
Spyware. Malware. Adware. These are all names for software that becomes installed on your PC for the sole purpose of collecting your personal information and using it for marketing purposes (or worse, for breaking into your PC and stealing your data). The newest version of Symantec AntiVirus helps to prevent this software from gaining a foothold on your PC.


5 - XP SP2
Windows XP SP2 provides a number of security enhancements to help protect your computer. Included with SP2 is a windows firewall, a pop-up blocker, and an easy to use security policy manager. For more information about XP SP2, please look here.


6 - Software Firewall
A firewall is an important aspect of computer security. By using a firewall on your computer, you can prevent unknown parties from requesting services from your computer.


7a - Lock your screen anytime you are away from your system
In order to prevent unauthorized access to your computer or data, you should lock your workstation whenever you are not using it.


7b - Log out, lock the screen or shutdown at the end of the day
Similar to (7a), it is recommended that when you leave your office at the end of the day, you either log out of your workstation, lock the screen, or shutdown the PC completely.


8 - Run MS office updates periodically
Part of maintaining security on a system is ensuring that the applications on that system are fully patched. Because many viruses are now being written to take advantage of security holes in Microsoft Office, it is important to run check for updates often. With MS Office 2003, it is easy to check for updates. Just go to the Help menu and then click on "Check for Updates."


9 - Do not install software from the web
It is important that you not allow untrusted websites to install software on your computer. A vast number of viruses and spyware are distributed by websites installing software on your computer.


10a - Secure passwords for all users
Passwords are an important aspect of computer security. They are the front line of protection for user accounts. A poorly chosen password may result in the compromise of Clarkson's entire network. As such, all Clarkson faculty, staff, and students are responsible for taking the appropriate steps, as outlined below, to select and secure their passwords.

  • All user-level passwords must conform to the guidelines described below:
    • A password must be at least eight (8) characters long
    • The password must not be found in a dictionary (English for foreign)
    • A password must contain at least one uppercase letter, one lowercase letter and one number or symbol
  • Passwords must not be inserted into email messages or other forms of electronic communication.
  • Passwords must not be written down or shared with other users.

10b - Don't have blank passwords
A blank password is just like having no password at all. By choosing to use blank passwords you are virtually inviting the outside world in. Your personal data can be accessed by anyone if you use a blank password.