Secure Purdue Information Technology

What to Do with a New Computer

  1. Determine your support structure for the new computer.
    1. Is there an IT team in charge of installing and updating this computer?
    2. Is there a support contact at Purdue who will help with the computer?
    3. Is the computer 100% your own responsibility?

    If you answered "yes" to a or b, continue on to Step 3. Afterwards, check with your support service to determine what, if anything, they need you to do.
    If you answered "yes" to c, continue to Step 2.

  2. Install and use an antivirus software package, if not already included on the computer.
    • Learn more by visiting the Purdue IT Service Desk page.
    • If your computer comes pre-loaded with an anti-virus software, such as Windows Defender, be sure you regularly update your machine with the latest security and software updates.
    • For optimum performance, you should only run one antivirus product at a time. Prior to installing an antivirus software on your machine, please go to Add/Remove Programs and remove any previously installed software.
  3. Update your Machine. It is recommended to update your computer at least once a week for optimal performance, please restart your computer to ensure updates are properly installed and configured. See below for each type:
    1. Windows Machines: Open an Internet browser and navigate to the Windows Update page. Follow the instructions on the resulting Microsoft Windows Update page to update your operating system with the latest patches and bug fixes.
    2. Mac Products: Open an Internet browser and navigate to the MacOS Update page. Follow the instructions to install the latest compatible version for each device.
    3. Linux Products: Open a command line and type the following two commands "sudo apt update" (click Return/Enter) and then "sudo apt upgrade" (click Return/Enter).
  4. Install antivirus software.
    • Navigate to the Purdue Software Community Hub to download your latest Endpoint connector, if not already installed by your IT support team. Only available for Self-supported Purdue-owned Windows or MacOS machines.
      • Once installed run an initial scan to make sure the connector is working, it should prompt automatically.
  5. If you are using the computer to access Purdue resources off campus, set up and use the VPN service to access. AnyConnect is also available on the Purdue Software Community Hub.
  6. Please use the Purdue IT Knowledge Base for more resources and help on setting up your new computer.
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