How can I get my computer ready for wireless networking?

For complete access to the UMW Wireless network, you should configure your computer as indicated below:

• Remove Network Bridge - A network bridge connects local area network (LAN) segments. Having a Network Bridge installed on your computer will disable the network port that you're connecting to; you should, before connecting a PC to the network, turn it on and check for a bridge in the network configuration. If a bridge exists, remove it by right-clicking and selecting  “delete.”  Also, make sure there are no AOL adapters installed.
  
• Obtain an  IP Address Automatically – An IP number Identifies your computer on the internet.  To work properly on UMW’s wirelesss network, your computer should be configured to obtain an IP address automatically. See http://www.umw.edu/technology/network/configure/student_windows_xp_on_camp.php.
  
• Windows Update - For the computer to work correctly on the UMW network, ALL Windows Updates must be installed. The Microsoft Windows Updates Web site provides updates for Windows operating system software and Windows-based hardware.
  
• Turn on Automatic Updates - If you turn on Automatic Updates, Windows Update can deliver high priority updates to your computer as they become available. You can decide when and how updates are installed.
  
• Install Virus Protection - Make sure that you have software that provides protection from computer viruses installed – and turned on – on your computer. The Department of Information Technologies provides, free of charge, Symantec AntiVirus Corporate Edition for all students.  See these instructions for installing the software;  find that software here.  Note:  You must have a valid UMW NetID and password to install and use this software;  to obtain your UMW NetID and password see http://www.umw.edu/technology/network/netid_password/default.php. You may  also use other antivirus applications. 
  
• Update Virus Definitions - For the best protection against viruses, the AntiVirus Software should be configured to update itself automatically.  Verify that the Symantec AntiVirus program (or an approved alternate) is configured to update automatically.
  
• Schedule Updates - For the best protection against viruses, the AntiVirus Software should be configured to update itself automatically.  Instructions for updating  the Symantec Antivirus software are found here.
  
• Install Clean Access - Cisco Clean Access is a program that allows the UMW servers to inspect your computer to make sure you have the latest Windows Updates, Symantec AntiVirus, and current virus definitions installed.  We check your computer only for the latest updates, virus software, and updated virus definitions. We do not "spy" on your computing habits.
  
• Eliminate Spyware - Spyware is software that is put on your computer without your knowledge or permission. It secretly and continuously gathers information and relays it to advertisers or other interested parties.  There are many free programs that will scan your computer for any type of Spyware and remove it. Some are better than others. Some of the most popular programs are Ad-aware, Spybot Search & Destroy, and Microsoft Antispyware.  See the UMW Department of Information Technologies' web page on spyware removal tools at http://www.umw.edu/technology/desktop/spyware/default.php.