Basic security for your computer and laptop
You are personally responsible for securing your laptop.
To ensure your laptop is well protected, you should at least: set up automatic screen locking, install antivirus software and regularly update the software on all your devices.
Set up automatic screen locking
Set up automatic screen locking (hibernation mode) so that your screen can only be unlocked with a password.
Go to Macworld to find out how to do this on Apple laptops.
Always lock your screen when leaving your workstation
Never leave your laptop unattended and always lock your screen when leaving your workstation, even if only for a moment.
- Windows: shortcut key combination Ctrl-Alt-Delete or Windows key + L(ock).
- Mac: shortcut key combination CTRL + CMD + Q.
- Linux: shortcut key combination Ctrl-Alt-L (may not work on some versions of Linux).
Outsmart hackers by updating your software regularly
Make sure you are always working with the latest software versions (of your operating system and browser, among other things) by updating the software regularly. If you are running the latest software versions, you run the least risk of coming under attack from computer viruses. This is because viruses exploit the vulnerabilities in less recent software versions. Updating software regularly also ensures you benefit from new and improved functionalities. If you have a software licence, these updates are free of charge. Do not ignore them, but install them straight away!
Install antivirus software
Install antivirus software, preferably a virus killer that includes a firewall. Go to website of the Dutch Consumers’ Association, the Consumentenbond, for information about virus killers that you can use free of charge. HvA students can purchase antivirus software at a discount from SURFSpot.
Tip: use Microsoft 365 free of charge
HvA students can use Microsoft 365 free of charge by logging in with their HvA-ID. Microsoft 365 is a bundle of SaaS programmes such as OneDrive, Teams, Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
Using Microsoft 365 lets you cooperate easily and safely with others in the cloud. It allows you to:
- make video calls, chat and cooperate online with students and external parties;
- share files and work in them at the same time;
- use your files any time, anywhere on your phone, tablet, laptop or PC. You have plenty of storage space.
