Home Computing FAQs

  • What is broadband? Where can I get it?

Broadband is a term for a high speed connection to the Internet. Usually provided by a DSL (Digital Subscriber Line) or cable modem, this connection can be up to 30 times as fast as a standard dial-up connection to the Internet.

Many faculty and staff have asked us where they can sign up for service. The two main providers are AT&T for DSL service and Comcast for cable modem service. If you would like information, such as pricing and availability, visit each company’s web site at http://www.attbroadband.com or http://www.comcast.com.

For information about setting up your email at home, visit the Checking Your Email From Home tutorial.
 

  • How do I use Windows Update to install critical service packs for my home computer?

Windows Update is a great way to keep your Windows 98/2000/XP home computer up to date with the latest Microsoft security and maintenance updates. You must have an active connection to the Internet before you begin. To install a component, first go to the Windows Update web site at http://www.windowsupdate.com with Internet Explorer. Then, click on the link labeled “Scan for Updates.” Next, just click on the check box next to a component’s description, and then click on “Install Now” button under “Review and Install Updates”.

Critical updates are regularly released by Microsoft to address security vulnerabilities, as well as to fix bugs and other flaws in Windows. Checking the Windows Update site at least once a month will ensure that your computer performs optimally.

You do not need to update your office computer. Information Systems and Technology staff is able to automatically do this for you.
 

  • How can I install the latest version of Norton Anti-Virus on my home computer for free? How do I update my virus definitions?

As a UCB employee, you are entitled to install Norton Anti-Virus on your home computer at no charge. To download the software on your own, make sure that you have an active connection to the Internet (a fast connection is preferable). Now, go to https://software.berkeley.edu with your web browser. Next, click on “Norton Anti-Virus Corporate Edition” under the section labeled “Windows Software”. Next, click on the button that reads “Download from UCB” under “Desktop Client Installer Only”. You now will be asked to log into the system using your CalNet ID and passphrase. After you log in, the download will begin automatically. Save the file to a place that you can easily access, such as the Desktop. Once the download is complete, double click on the file and follow the instructions for installing the software. When you are prompted to perform either a managed or unmanaged installation, choose unmanaged and click “Next.”

If you have trouble downloading the program, feel free to visit the Help Desk in 369 Law Building to get a copy of Norton Anti-Virus on CD-ROM.

You will need to make sure that you keep your virus definitions current to protect your home computer from new viruses. You must have a connection to the Internet before you begin. First, open Norton Anti-Virus by double clicking on the yellow shield in your systray (the lower right hand portion of your screen by the clock). Then, click on the button labeled “Live Update” on the main portion of the program. After you click “Next” two times, it will download the latest definition file from Symantec. Checking “Live Update” for new definitions at least every two weeks will protect your computer from new viruses.  

There is no need to perform this on your office computer. It will automatically receive virus definition updates from Information Systems and Technology on a regular basis.