Technology

Anti-Virus & Anti-Malware for Personal Devices

Last modified 10/31/2024

Keeping your device protected 

Here at Illinois State University, we encourage all users to have some form of protection against viruses and malware on their personal devices. Some basic protection is provided in both Windows and Mac devices by default. Here are some additional steps you can take to protect your device:

  • Almost all devices have some sort of built-in protection software
    • Windows includes Microsoft Defender
      • If you open up Windows Security, go to Virus & threat protection, click on Manage providers, you should see Microsoft Defender Antivirus is on.
    • Apple includes unbranded security products as part of the operating system

  • If you are looking into getting something more than the default built-in software, then we would suggest checking out the following lists below. Each list includes products that have been recommended for that device. If you are interested in checking out more information on a particular product, simply click on the product name, then click on "Website >" which will send you to the product's main webpage. 

    Note

    Some products might be free while others will have a cost. We encourage you to read the details for each product carefully. Also, keep an eye out for "Free trials" for some of the products, as those may have hidden costs. 

  • If you are looking for something beyond anti-virus / anti-malware then we would strongly suggest browser-based protection, such as these:
  • Many people fall victim to malicious websites. As a final level of protection, consider this request filtering solution. It also works well on mobile devices.

How to Get Help

Technical assistance is available through the Illinois State University Technology Support Center at:

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