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Overview
The following information only pertains to computers utilizing a Windows-based operating system on the UH network that has become infected with a virus.
Detecting and Removing Viruses
Virus infection is a common reason a computer can get blocked form the UH network. A virus is defined as a program that was purposely designed to be loaded and run unknowingly on a computer. Some viruses (called worms) replicate themselves and spread to other computers using the network or via infected email messages. Computers are blocked from the network in order to prevent this from happening.
Possible 'Blocked' Computer
If you have previously been able to get on the Internet but find that you are unable to get to a web address using a browser while others in your office are able to do so, there is a possibility that your UH Username or Internet Protocol (IP) address might be blocked from the UH network. You may call the Information Technology Services (ITS) Help Desk (link) to check if this could be the case.
Virus Infected Computer
If your computer is very sluggish, randomly experiences control problems, or if you have received email messages from friends saying that an email you sent them contained a virus, your computer may be infected. At the moment, ITS recommends the built-in anti-virus for Windows, which is Windows Defender. Using this antivirus application, you should be able to run an on-demand scan to detect and mitigate for known malware.
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Preventing Future PC Infections
A PC must be secured and patched to prevent future infections. If your PC is not secured, you may be re-infected and blocked from using the UH network multiple times. If you have been blocked from using the UH network previously, it will become more difficult to get your PC unblocked on successive network blockings.
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Change/Create Passwords for Windows Computers
It is important to be sure that all of the accounts on your Windows computer have secure passwords. Insecure passwords can be easily guessed or obtained by automated guessing programs. A secure password is at a minimum six to eight characters long with at least one upper, one lower, one number and one special character. See Password Guidelines (link) for tips on creating strong passwords. To change your password on your Windows machine:
- Click the Start button
- Click Settings
- Click Accounts
- Click Sign-in options
- Under Password, Click Change
- Enter your current password
- Enter your new password twice along with a password hint, then click Next
- Click the Finish button to change your password
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Windows Updates and Patches
Windows updates and patches are important for securing Windows PCs. Your computer may get infected or compromised if the Windows security patches are not up-to-date. To manually check for Windows updates:
- Go to Settings
- Click on Windows Update
- Click on Check for updates
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