If you want to use the UW Bothell network, you must bring your laptop to Information Systems to be registered. This is necessary regardless of the operating system. This includes computers running any version of Windows, Macintosh computers, as well as computers running Linux and other versions of Unix. Computers running Windows NT 4.0, Windows 2000, Windows XP, or Windows 2003 Server must also have up-to-date security patches and anti-virus software installed before they will be allowed to use the network.
Windows has many security weakness that can be used by attackers to gain control of Windows computers and to run programs harmful to you, to the UW, and to other Internet users. Existing attacks are taking many different forms, and additional new methods of exploiting these Windows vulnerability are expected.
In order to protect UW Bothell from these attacks, all computers must be registered with the Information Systems department before they will be allowed to use the UWB campus network.
As part of the registration process, Information Systems staff will check your computer for critical software updates and viruses, and they will either update your computer or provide you with instructions so you can do it yourself.
To register your computer, bring your laptop, your Husky Card, and a photo ID to the Information Systems Helpdesk, room UW1-080. Before you bring your laptop to us, it is a good idea to back up your files. It is unlikely that the patches or anti-virus updates will cause problems, but it is possible. It will save you time during the registration process if your laptop is already patched and updated when you bring it in.
Registration hours:
- Monday through Friday: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
When the Helpdesk is closed, laptop registration is available at the Information Commons Tech Desk:
- Monday through Thursday: 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
- Saturday and Sunday: Noon to 5:00 p.m.
C&C is constantly scanning for infected computers on the UW network, so chances are your laptop will be blocked from access. To unblock your computer, you will need to go to this website: http://www.washington.edu/computing/security/unblock/
You will first have to scan and patch your machine, and can then unblock it. The website requires that you login with your UW NetID first.
Protecting your laptop and home computer from viruses and hackers
