Protect your PC

Before connecting your own computer to the Kent network you must protect it from viruses and other threats. Campus student PCs and Staff Managed Desktops are automatically protected.

Install Adware and Spyware tools

As well as viruses, your PC is at risk from:

  • Adware: this causes intrusive advertising pop ups; and
  • Spyware: programs which discreetly access your data, usually for financial gain. You may have been infected without knowing it, therefore it's important to run a Spyware scan regularly using a tool such as Malwarebytes (see below). More about Spyware
How to protect against Adware and Spyware:
  1. Install Malwarebytes:
    Malwarebytes: free Adware and Spyware detection and removal
  2. Once installed you need to regularly run a scan to check for Spyware, as it can be running on your PC undetected, passing on your data without your knowledge.
If I already have anti-virus software, why do I need anything more?

Some anti-virus programs will detect and remove Adware and Spyware. We recommend that you also install a tool like Malwarebytes for extra protection.

If you have a problem removing adware and spyware:

Malwarebytes will resolve most problems. If a problem persists, try one of these:

  • Spybot Search and Destroy: needs to be manually updated weekly to be useful.
  • Microsoft Windows Defender: only install if Malwarebytes or Spybot Search and Destroy do not resolve issues.
  • HijackThis: for advanced users only. Designed to remove problems from parts of your system that are integral to the normal running of Windows. Removing legitimate items from the list of things found by Hijack may damage your Windows installation. If in doubt, contact the IT & Library Support Desk.