Software
The following softwares are required on your device. The good news is, it's all free.
Antivirus
Having an Antivirus installed on your laptop is very important, but which one? Not all Antivirus software is created equal.
There's a very good website called AV-test.org ( https://www.av-test.org/en/antivirus/ ) that provides a frequently updated ranking of virtually all Antivirus software. It measures them not only in terms of how effective they are at virus detection, but whether it's free or paid, the level of interface usability and the performance impact it will have on your computer.
Windows 10
There is a built in Antivirus in Windows 10 called Windows Defender (Security Essentials), which typically ranks very well on the AV-Test lists. There is no need to install another Antivirus.
MacBooks
The macOS operating system itself is very secure and it is not required to run Antivirus to connect to the College Wi-Fi.
That said, macOS is still susceptible to malicious programs if system warnings are bypassed by the user.
Important note regarding 'web protection'
Most modern Antivirus packages have a built in 'web protection' type function.
This places various rules and protective layers on the laptop's access to the internet. Because the College runs enterprise grade web protection on campus, if a 'web protection' tool is also running on the laptop it causes a double up, which can stop the laptop from being able to use the internet at all.
It is recommended that you disable any 'web protection' functions within an antivirus.
The best advice to avoid viruses;
Avoid free movie, games and file sharing websites. If an online service offers something for free, they're either intentionally attempting to deceive you, or you are the product. So why do Antivirus companies offer free software? While it may be part altruism, it's also required to keep their paid business Antivirus products functional by ensuring the general population keep the virus rate down.
Avoid opening email attachments and be critical of email content: There are very few legitimate services that still use email attachments. Banks and Australia Post never attach files. They also never use links in their email. When you are presented with a web link in an email hover your mouse over it and see if it goes where it should. Often scammers try to disguise links to look legitimate. Best practice is to avoid the link completely and make your own way to the web site.
Avoid adding Browser extensions or frivolous apps: such as changing your mouse cursor, sounds or a custom browser home screen. These are often culprits in distributing malicious code which either hijacks your computer or sends your personal information and online data to unknown people.
Adobe Creative Cloud
Adobe Creative Cloud is provided free for students. You can download Creative Cloud here.
Once downloaded you can use your College student credentials to gain access to the Adobe Creative Cloud apps.
Google Chrome
Whilst students are able to use any web browser they choose, it it required that the latest version of Google Chrome is installed as it is compatible with the most online services. Often when a web resource doesn't work with either Safari or Internet Explorer, it will work with Chrome.
You can download Chrome directly from Google, here.
Microsoft OneDrive
OneDrive is the file platform used by the College. If provides each student with 1TB of file storage and online collaborative features as well as excellent backup sync tool. OneDrive can be used on via Office Online but also has sync tools available that keep a local copy of your documents that automatically backup to the cloud. For more information view Files & Backup.
For macOS go to the Apple App Store here.
For Windows download it from Microsoft here.
Install the app and login using your SSC email address.
