Preparing Your Computer for Use at UAB

Incoming students are required to verify that their computers are up-to-date with the latest patches and antivirus software. This step must be completed prior to connecting to the UAB network using a wired Ethernet (in residence halls only) or wireless (Wi-Fi) connection. Please follow these steps to prepare your computer. When you have prepared your computer, click the link in Step 4 to verify that you have the correct settings.

1. Ensure that your computer is running a valid, licensed operating system. For students, UAB supports PCs with Windows XP with Service Pack 3, Windows Vista with Service Pack 2 and

Windows 7 with Service pack 1. UAB also supports Macs with OS X 10.6 or later. 

2. Check for updates that are available for your operating system. Windows operating systems can be updated by visitingwww.update.microsoft.com

Mac OS X operating systems can be updated by clicking on the Apple icon in the Menu ribbon and choosing Software Update.

3. Ensure that one of the antivirus applications in the list below is installed. Microsoft Forefront and Microsoft Security Essentials are free of charge to students and can be downloaded at the links provided. Contact the AskIT Help Desk at 205-966-5555 for assistance with antivirus issues.

For Windows Operating Systems:

For Mac Operating Systems: