Symantec AntiVirus Software
Get Help with Symantec AntiVirus...
- Installing Symantec
- How to Scan Your Computer for Viruses
- Latest Virus Threats and Vulnerabilities from Symantec's Website
Getting Started
Boise State University has a site license for Symantec AntiVirus that allows the software to be installed on all University-owned computers, as well as faculty and staff personally-owned computers.
University employees can obtain free copies of Symantec AntiVirus software for both Microsoft Windows and Apple Macintosh through the OIT Help Desk, located at 2710 W. Boise Ave. in Capitol Village. We're open 8:00 am - 5:00 pm, Monday - Friday.
Installation
University-Owned Computers
For University-owned computers, the Office of Information Technology maintains a "managed" installation of Symantec AntiVirus that keeps the antivirus client updated automatically. This requires an installation of the software the ZENworks Application Window, or a special installation performed by an OIT support analyst or a college or area network administrator.
Personal Computers
Prior to installing Symantec AntiVirus on a personal computer, please be sure to uninstall any existing antivirus software.
Using an OIT Help Desk checkout CD (or an installation disc provided by your college or area network adminstrator), place the CD in your drive and follow the instructions on the screen (or provided on the disc).
Boise State University has a site license for Symantec AntiVirus for both Microsoft Windows and Apple Macintosh computer. This license allows for installations on all University-owned devices, as well as employee's personal computers.
Please note you will need to uninstall any antivirus software you have on a personal computer before installing Symantec AntiVirus.
How to Scan Your Computer for Viruses
Symantec AntiVirus is configured upon installation to constantly monitor activity on your computer and to catch malicious files before they have a chance to infect your machine. However, it's good practice to perform a complete antivirus scan as part of your regular computer maintenance.
You'll also want to perform a complete virus scan if your computer suddenly begans to act sluggish, or you notice any unusual behavior (such as frequent web browser popups). Here's how:
Symantec for Microsoft Windows
- Go to Start > Programs > Symantec AntiVirus (or Symantec Client Security)
- Select the drive you wish to scan from the "Drives" list
- Select the drive type
- Click the Scan Now button
Norton AntiVirus (Symantec) for Apple Macintosh
- From the Applications menu, launch Norton AntiVirus
- Select the drive(s) you wish to scan
- Select Scan/Repair
Keep in mind a complete virus scan can sometimes take an hour (or more), so allow plenty of time for the scan to complete.
The antivirus software will display on the screen any viruses encountered, along with the names of infected files, and a summary alerting you if the virus was quaratined or removed. You may also be prompted to take additional actions to remove a virus if necessary.
The OIT Help Desk is available to assist you with running virus scans, as well as give you helpful information on how to remove and prevent viruses.
Of course, the OIT Help Desk is available for any questions you may have. We're open 8:00 am - 5:00 pm Monday - Friday, and you can reach us at 426-4357, or via e-mail at helpdesk@boisestate.edu

