What is EDR? Is it different than antivirus?
Endpoint Detection Response (EDR) software is a security solution that monitors end user devices (endpoints) for possible security threats like ransomware and malware. OIT used to recommend antivirus solutions for university owned and personally-owned devices but switched to Microsoft Defender as EDR software is better suited to the current cyber security landscape.
What software can I download?
All CU Boulder students, faculty, and staff can download the appropriate software solution as follows:
- Computers used for work (e.g. university-owned) computers should download Microsoft Defender for Endpoint.
- Personally-owned computers should use Windows Defender (for Windows) and Malwarebytes (for Mac).
What happens if I do not install the new EDR program?
If you don't have the most recent software installed, your computer will not receive updates and therefore will not be protected from new cyber threats. For the wellness of your system, you should install a new antivirus as soon as possible.
I could not uninstall an old version of antivirus software, what should I do?
Please contact the IT Service Center at 303-735-4357 or oithelp@colorado.edu for support.
Why are you recommending different products for university use and personal use?
- University-owned computers (used specifically for work purposes) must follow Secure Computing guidelines and are licensed to do so.
- Windows Defender, which is free for windows users, or Malwarebytes, our recommended low cost solution, work for personally owned machines that are not licensed for Microsoft Security Software.
What if I would like to manage antivirus updates through a management console?
Email us at oithelp@colorado.edu and explain your needs for a management console.
