All computers connecting to the University network are required to have a working, up-to-date anti-virus installed. While Windows 8 and 10 come with Windows Defender (a full anti-virus program that is fine to use at the University), other operating systems such as macOS and Linux will need to have a separate anti-virus installed. If you are unsure whether or not your computer has an anti-virus installed, contact AskOtago for further assistance.

University of Otago’s Virus Protection Policy

All University-owned computers are required to run Sophos Home. If you have a University-owned computer which does not have Sophos Home installed on it, please contact AskOtago to arrange for your desktop support team to install the University-licensed version.

The University of Otago recommends Sophos Home, which can be downloaded for free directly from the Sophos website:

You should only use one anti-virus software application on your computer. Using multiple anti-virus software will not increase security and can reduce your computer's performance significantly due to conflicts.

If you need any assistance installing or removing an anti-virus program, or if you are worried about malware on your computer, please contact AskOtago:

Freephone 0800 80 80 98 (within New Zealand)
Tel +64 3 479 7000
Email askotago.it@otago.ac.nz

Students are also welcome to contact AskOtago Student IT Services:
Tel +64 3 479 5170
Email studentit@otago.ac.nz
Message us on Facebook
Or visit Student IT at the AskOtago Central Hub

Last updated 26/10/2021 02.21 PM

Did this answer your question?