Anti-Virus Software

Antivirus (AV) software can protect your computer from viruses, spyware, and other malicious software. It works by scanning your device for indicators or patterns of known malicious software (malware) and then removing them.

Since anti-virus software vendors find new and updated malware every day, it is important to regularly update your virus protection software so it can recognize and protect your devices against the latest threats.

While installing any reputable anti-virus software on your device will increase your level of protection, no anti-virus solution offers 100% protection since no AV vendor knows of all types of malware at all times. Therefore, make sure to protect yourself further by following other cybersecurity best practices.

Purchase or Download

UMN Licenses

Availability	Cost
Department For installation on a University-owned device	Purchased licenses for Microsoft Defender available; pre-installed on new University devices
Employee For installation on an employee's personal device	Dependent on selected vendor
Student For installation on a student's personal device	Dependent on selected vendor

Recommendations for Departments

The following anti-virus programs come pre-installed on new University-owned devices. If you are using a University-owned device that does not have anti-virus software installed, please contact Technology Help.

Windows

For Microsoft devices running Windows 10 and above, Windows Security is built-in to Windows devices and includes an anti-virus program called Microsoft Defender Antivirus.

Microsoft provides support articles on how to Stay protected with Windows Security, as well as How to start a scan for viruses or malware in Microsoft Defender.

Macintosh

University Apple macOS and iOS devices are enrolled in a comprehensive management system called Jamf.

Jamf-registered University devices automatically receive anti-virus protection with Microsoft Defender Antivirus.

Recommendations for Employees and Students

Students, staff, and faculty need to select and provide their own anti-virus software for personal devices.

Many operating systems nowadays come with anti-virus software pre-installed.

For devices running Windows 10 and above, Windows Security is built-in to Windows devices and includes an anti-virus program called Microsoft Defender Antivirus.
- Microsoft provides support articles on how to Stay protected with Windows Security, as well as How to start a scan for viruses or malware in Microsoft Defender.
Macintosh has security software built in to their latest OS.
- Apple’s XProtect anti-virus software is one of three layers of defense used in protecting against malware in macOS.

Since the functions of anti-virus software are essentially the same, other things to consider include a software’s reputation or recommendation, device compatibility, particular features that align with how you use your device, or price.

When choosing an anti-virus solution, be sure to research the vendor and program thoroughly, then only purchase or install software from known, reputable sources.

Terms and Conditions

General Technology Products Terms & Conditions apply to anti-virus software licenses. If additional terms and conditions apply to this item, they will be listed below.

Restrictions

The anti-virus software must comply with University policies, including Information Security and Acceptable Use of Information Technology Resources.

Resources

Vendor Links

Campus Resources

Have a question about software licenses, codes, or renewals? Send e-mail to the OIT Software License Team.
Need help using the software? Contact Technology Help.