5.4 Workstation and Computer System Security

You can increase the chances that your computer will not be attacked by an intruder by learning how a computer can become vulnerable to attack. To learn more about the latest types of attacks on computers and how to avoid them, read "How to Secure Your UNT Workstation" found on the information security website: http://www.unt.edu/security. Faculty and staff members should contact their network manager or system administrator for assistance implementing the suggested recommendations. The following information is included in the guide: a description of a typical hacking scene, applying software patches, disabling unnecessary services and servers, the perils of using your computer account with administrative rights enabled, spam ("unsolicited" e-mail), vulnerabilities in commonly used software, peer-to-peer software, why it's good to use password protected screen savers, file and print sharing, and using personal firewalls.

Network managers and system administrators will find the "Code of Good Practices (Reference for Securing Systems)" guide helpful. These best practice documents are available to administrators who would like to learn more about securing windows and unix based systems. The information can be found on the information security website at http://www.unt.edu/security.