So you got a new PC and it runs on a Microsoft’s Windows 7 operating system. First off, congratulations! Out of the box, Windows 7 is Microsoft’s most secure operating system. However, there are a few things you can do to make your computer even better.

Disable AutoRun/AutoPlay — When you insert a CD, DVD or USB flash drive into your computer, Windows 7 will automatically try to run and play the contents. While this feature is nice, it is also one of the easiest ways for cyber criminals to get you to run something bad on your PC. By disabling the AutoRun/AutoPlay feature, you will be preventing this from happening.

To disable, go to: Control Panel > Hardware and Sound > AutoPlay, uncheck “Use AutoPlay for all Media” and then hit “Save.”

Change User Account Control Settings to prevent malicious code execution — this will prevent bad software from changing your operating system without your permission. For example, “World of Warcraft” needs to constantly update its shortcuts stored within the Program Files folder. If you make this recommended change, “Warcraft” will prompt you each time. If you do not make this recommended change, malicious software could mimic “Warcraft” and make changes to Windows 7 without you ever knowing it.

To change: Control Panel > User Accounts and Family Safety > Add or Remove User Accounts. Select the User Accounts and then select “Change User Account Control Settings.” Slide the scale up to the “Always Notify” setting and then click on “OK.”
Get familiar with “Action Center” — Whereas WindowsXP and Vista had the “Windows Security Center,” Windows 7 has “Action Center.” It is a central place to view alerts and take actions that can help keep Windows 7 running smoothly (like running Windows Defender regularly to remove spyware.)

Install anti-virus software that will be kept up to date for more than 30 or 90 days — Most new PCs come with anti-virus software already installed. However, that software is usually only good for one to three months. If you have a UNM NetID, you can install Symantec’s anti-virus software on your personal computer at no cost and keep it up to date so long as you are a student, faculty or staff member.

First, uninstall your current anti-virus software and then visit http://it.unm.edu/download/ to download and install Symantec Endpoint Protection anti-virus software.
If you have questions about computer security or have ideas for future topics, feel free to contact Mike at mcarr@unm.edu.

Mike Carr is the UNM Director of IT Security & Quality Assurance.