In keeping with NC State’s Antivirus Software Requirements, you must have university-approved antivirus software installed and kept up-to-date on each device that you connect to the campus network.

NOTE: These guidelines and standards are specifically for personally owned computers. For any virus or antivirus issues on your university-owned device, please immediately contact your local IT or the Help Desk at 919-515-4357 (HELP).

What antivirus program should I have installed on my personal computer?

Windows 10/11

For personally-owned Windows computers, you must have at least one of the following:

• Windows Defender, which comes default with every Windows 10 or 11 system.
• An Approved Alternate Antivirus valuated and certified by AV-TEST with a Protection score of 3 or higher (not the Performance or Usability score).

macOS

For personally-owned Mac devices, you must have at least one of the following:

• An Approved Alternate Antivirus that has been approved by AV-Comparatives during the current or prior year.

Is there any specifically recommended antivirus program?

OIT cannot endorse any specific antivirus product for Windows or macOS at this time. Any program that falls under the above specifications of "What antivirus program should I have installed on my personal computer?" is permitted.

Who do I contact for support with my personal computer's antivirus program?

For any on-campus assistance with suspected or confirmed viruses on your personally-owned device, please visit the Walk-In Center.

If you have any issues with the use or licensing of your alternative antivirus program, OIT does not provide technical support for any approved alternate antivirus product. Please contact the vendor of the antivirus program for support. 

How else can I make sure my system is secure?

To best protect your computer, we strongly encourage you to do both of these things:

• Upgrade your operating system to the latest version.
• Apply all security patches and updates as soon as they are available