Contact Information
| Location: | Fenwick Hall, Lower Level, Room 021 |
| Hours: | 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Monday through Friday |
| Email: | helpdesk@holycross.edu |
| Phone: | 508-793-3548 |
| Fax: | 508-793-2711 |
Top Smart Computer Usage Tips/Hints
Clean off spy-ware that can be downloaded and installed onto your computer without your knowledge.
Two best programs (free):
Ad-aware (http://www.lavasoftusa.com)
Spy-bot S & D (http://www.safer-networking.org/en/download/index.html)
Keep up-to-date with the Windows updates (http://windowsupdate.microsoft.com) Many of the newest viruses only infect windows machines that do not have the newest critical patches.
Be careful of Peer-to-Peer file-sharing Viruses and spy-ware spread rapidly through most P2P programs. The more often you use these programs to share music, videos, and other files, the more likely something has been downloaded and installed onto your computer that you don’t want there (especially with Kazaa, Morpheous, Blubster, and Microsoft Networking).
Have up-to-date virus protection Whether it is Norton, McAfee, Sophos, or even AVG (free); it is crucial to have virus protection software to help deal with the viruses that cause all sorts of computer troubles. All of these need to be updated regularly as new viruses are created daily.
Download with caution If a website prompts you to download and install software needed to view the site click ‘no’ unless it is a known company (i.e. Microsoft, Macromedia, Apple, McAfee). If you are unsure of a download, it is better to cancel out of it. This also applies to general pop-ups that tempt the user to click on the pop-up to close it. Ignore these ‘ok’ and ‘close’ buttons, and close the window like you would any web page.
Beware of strange e-mail attachments Only open an attachment when you are sure what it is. Viruses can spread through e-mail, and even use the name of a friend as the sender.
Password protect Windows Shared files If you use Microsoft File and Print Sharing then you should also have a password set-up to protect your computer. If you have file-sharing on without a password you make it easier for someone to gain access to your computer.
Do not rely on Floppy Disks Floppy disks are not a reliable way to save documents or other important work. Floppy disks can easily become unreadable with simple everyday use and travel. It is always best to save backup copies of your work, especially on your personal P: drive. You are given access to this drive when logged into Novell. (The P: drive is also helpful because it can be accessed on any campus computer with Novell installed).
Bring all computer/warranty information and CD's Bringing all your warranty information and installation CD’s to campus will enable you to receive quicker service from Help Desk staff, RCCs and area vendors.