Windows Computer Certification
Overview
Before connecting to our network, we need you to certify that your personal computer is protected against malicious viruses and spyware. It is critical that you take the steps below to protect your data and privacy. Certification helps protect the Law School network and systems from viruses and security breaches.
Certification Steps
- Install Antivirus Protection
- Confirm Windows Firewall is Enabled
- Verify Windows Updates Install Automatically
- Verify Windows is Fully Patched
- Set a Strong Password for All Accounts
- Use a Restricted User Account
Install Antivirus Protection
Verify that your computer has antivirus protection installed and that your virus definitions are consistently updated. Penn offers Sophos Home for free for all students.
Confirm Windows Firewall is Enabled
Verify that your computer has Windows Firewall activated. If you have a third party firewall application installed, you will need to disable it.
- Open Control Panel.
- Click on Windows Firewall.
- Confirm that Windows Firewall is set to On.
- Click OK (If you cannot find Windows Firewall as an option, please click Switch to Classic View option).
Verify Windows Updates Install Automatically
Verify your computer is set to install Windows Updates automatically.
- Open Windows Update by clicking the Start button. In the search box, type Update, and then, in the list of results, click Windows Update.
- In the left pane, click Change settings.
- Under Important updates, choose the option that you want.
- Under Recommended updates, select the Give me recommended updates the same way I receive important updates check box, and then click OK. If you are prompted for an administrator password or confirmation, type the password or provide confirmation.
Verify Windows is Fully Patched
Verify your computer is fully patched.
- Open Windows Update by clicking the Start button. In the search box, type Update, and then, in the list of results, click Windows Update.
- In the left pane, click Check for updates and then wait while Windows looks for the latest updates for your computer.
- If any updates are found, click Install updates.
Set a Strong Password for All Accounts
Set a strong password. Make sure you choose a strong password for every user account, including the Administrator account.
Use a Restricted User Account
Use a restricted user account. Most home computers are more susceptible to viruses and spyware because users log in with an account that has Administrator access. It is important to change your default login to have ‘limited’ access and create a new account with Administrator access for installing new software and changing system settings.
Information Security and Privacy Resources
Please visit the Security Overview for more information.
