Antivirus software can protect your laptop, desktop, or server against viruses and other malicious activity. Many popular, free or low-cost options are available, including University-supported Symantec Endpoint Protection. This article describes how to obtain antivirus for Windows, Mac OS X, and Linux.
Choosing Software
You may choose from many acceptable options for free or low-cost antivirus software which can protect your computer. Notable free options include:
- Windows Security (formerly known as Windows Defender) is built-in to Windows 10 and runs by default.
- Bitdefender Antivirusand AVG have free offerings for Windows and Mac OS X.
Symantec Endpoint Protection (SEP) antivirus software is provided free to eligible campus users (current faculty, staff, and students of the University). SEP must not be distributed to anyone lacking a direct affiliation with the University, and when your affiliation with the University ceases, you must remove SEP from your computer(s) and replace it with other antivirus. Instructions for SEP are included below.
Download the Symantec Client Software
Eligible users may download SEP software version from the options below, using a CNetID and password. Detailed system requirements are available in the Symantec release notes.
Windows
Symantec Endpoint Protection is compatible with Windows 7 through Windows 10. To download click the link below then from the Box preview Window click the Download button.
- Symantec Endpoint Protection 14.2.2 MP2 64-bit Windows
- Symantec Endpoint Protection 14.2.2 MP2 32-bit Windows
Mac OS X
Symantec Endpoint Protection is compatible with Mac OS 10.10 through 10.15.
Linux
Symantec Endpoint Protection is compatible with various Linux distributions. Refer to the README file, included in the download, before installing the application.
Install the Symantec Client Software
Note: If you are running a previous version of Symantec Endpoint Protection, you may be prompted to uninstall it before completing the new installation. If this happens, there is an uninstaller included in the Zip package of the new installer (Symantec Uninstaller) that you can use to remove the existing version. Also note, you may have to use an administrator account to perform the installations.
To install on Windows:
- Right-click on setup.exe.
- Select Run as administrator.
To install on Mac OS X:
- Click on the downloaded .zip file in your Downloads. It will extract a .dmg file.
- Click on the .dmg file and follow instructions on your screen.
Update the Symantec Virus Definitions (and Client)
When you install SEP, be sure to update the Virus Definitions. The installer app will prompt you if an updated is required. After the initial installation, you must continue to update the Virus Definitions regularly in order for your computer to be properly protected. New definitions are released frequently, and sometimes daily. Be sure to setup auto updates through your SEP preferences.
New versions of the desktop application, distinct from the virus definitions, are not released on a regular basis. Please stay current and download upgrades as they become available. You can be alerted of the upgrades if you subscribe to the Symantec Antivirus Client Upgrade Alert mailing list.
Note for IT Administrators
As part of the University's site license with Symantec, larger downloads that provide both generic client installers (without defaults or customizations) along with server-based management consoles, are available upon request. These console applications allow you to easily install, configure, and maintain large numbers of endpoints. For more information, contact licensing@uchicago.edu.