
Before using your laptop or computer to connect to the UCT network you must install an up-to-date anti-virus application. For UCT-owned machines, Trellix (formerly known as McAfee) anti-virus (Endpont Security) software comes automatically installed. For your own machine, you are entitled to a free site-licensed copy of Trellix, which you can get from our Downloads page. Remember to uninstall any other anti-virus programs before installing Trellix. Trellix will update automatically when you are connected to the UCT network. ICTS has anti-virus and malware specialists who continuously optimise the Trellix anti-virus software and configuration for you. If you are running your own anti-virus program, keeping the software updated and optimised is your responsibility.
Should your machine be infected to a point where it compromises the UCT network, the machine could be restricted from connecting to the UCT network until it is cleaned and complies with the UCT Anti-virus Policy.
UCT-owned computers
UCT-owned computers are installed with Trellix Endpoint Security. The system provides users with two critical security modules:
- Threat Prevention: Checks for viruses, spyware, unwanted programs, and other threats by scanning items - automatically when users access them or on demand at any time.
- Web Control: Displays safety ratings and reports for websites during online browsing and searching. Web Control enables the site administrator to block access to websites based on safety rating or content.
The University of Cape Town has a license agreement with Intel Security to allow us to use the following Trellix anti-virus products for the Operating Systems (OS) outlined below:
Operating System (OS) | Trellix product | Who can use this product? | How to get it |
Windows 7 or later |
Endpoint Security | Staff - for UCT & home use Students - for UCT & home use |
See installation instructions |
Apple Mac | Endpoint Security | Staff - for UCT & home use | See installation instructions |
Linux | LinuxShield | Staff - for UCT & home use | Download from the ICTS website while on campus (staff only) |
Regular updates of the software ensures that your computer is always protected from the latest threats.
Virus protection for mobile devices
UCT does not offer an anti-virus solution for mobile devices such as smart phones, tablets and other handheld devices. Customers making use of these devices need to make their own arrangements for anti-virus protection.