Removing Viruses

Every computer connected to the Internet needs to have fully updatable virus scanning software. Ole Miss students are able to get the latest version of Symantec AntiVirus free of charge by following these instructions:

• Log in to my.olemiss.edu
• Select Student
• Tools and Resources
• Information Technology
• Free Antivirus Software

Several websites offer free virus / spyware scans directly from Internet Explorer with no software installation necessary.

Windows Live Safety Center is a free virus removal website created by Microsoft. Simply go to the site: http://safety.live.com/ and click the Full Service Scan button.

Housecall is another free online virus/spyware scanner.  Running a Housecall scan is a good first step to cleaning your computer.  It can be found at the following address:  http://housecall.trendmicro.com/

Removing Spyware

There are several free programs available on the Internet to help remove spyware from your computer.  Spyware infections can slow your computer, spy on your internet browsing habits, cause pop-ups, and leave your computer vulnerable to other security threats.

We recommend using the following three programs to clean your computer of spyware:

• Ad-Aware 2007
• Spybot Search & Destroy 1.5.2
• A-Squared

These three programs will detect and remove spyware from your computer.  It is important to use the Update feature in each of the programs after installing them, but before scanning your machine.

IT Helpdesk Services

If you are unable to clean your computer, the Helpdesk can do it for you. If you require our service, simply bring your computer by the Helpdesk in 100 Weir Hall.  Our charges are $20.00 an hour for virus/spyware removal with a maximum charge of $80.00.  These charges can be paid via Ole Miss Express, Visa, or MasterCard.