Knowledgebase (FAQ)

Configuring for daily updates

VirusScan version 7 changed the way they perform updates. In version 4.5.1 and earlier the updates were contained in large .zip files known as "DAT" or "virus definition" files. Version 7.0 now uses .UPD files to perform the updates. These files are much smaller, hence they download and update faster.

You may configure your computer to automatically update the .UPD files for McAfee VirusScan by completing the steps outlined below. The UPD files for McAfee's VirusScan are updated daily on the mcafee.usu.edu server.

These instructions assume you have previously installed McAfee VirusScan v7.0 or later and currently have it running on your computer. If VirusScan is not currently running, you will need to install and have it running before proceeding.

If you have not yet downloaded and installed McAfee Virus Scan then click here to get this software.

1. Click the VirusScan icon on the far right side of the taskbar, then select VirusScan Console.

You may also open the VirusScan Console by clicking on :

• Click on Start
• Select All Programs
• Click Network Associates
• Select VirusScan Console
• Click on Tools on the menu bar
• Select Edit
  
• Click AutoUpdate Repository List

(This will take you into the following window and allow you to modify the default settings.)

2. Click on the Add button and configure the autoupdate as shown in the picture below.

Note: Reconfiguring VirusScan to update from a local Repository will decrease the time to perform the update.

• Once you have configured the Repository as shown above click OK.

5. Click on the Schedule button that appears then click on the Schedule tab.

Important: We recommend that you schedule updates at least weekly. (Updates are released from McAfee daily.)

6. Click OK and your done!

Congratulations! Your computer has now been configured to check for virus definition updates on a daily basis.