Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly does the HCT do?

The HCT runs a number of security checks on your computer, including checking for the latest security patches, searching for malicious software, making sure you are running some type of virus protection software, and making sure you are running an automated update process. The tool will direct you to required and recommended software updates and applications. This tool was developed by IT Services; click here for a full description of HCT actions.

What operating systems are supported by the HCT? What if I'm running something other than Mac OS X, Windows 2000, XP or Vista?

The following operating systems are supported by the HCT:

• Mac OS X
• Windows 2000 Service Pack 3 or higher
• Windows XP (not including 64-bit)
• Windows Vista

If you are running Windows 2000 Service Pack 2 or below, you should visit Microsoft Update and update your system to at least Service Pack 3 before running the tool.

If you are running an unsupported version of Windows (e.g. 64-bit or Windows Mobile), please talk to your RCC to have your computer approved for registration.

If you are running Linux or other varieties of Unix (i.e. something other than Windows or Mac OS) or are registering a device without a traditional operating system (e.g. an Xbox or Tivo), you may proceed directly to registration.

If you are running a version of Mac OS earlier than X or Windows earlier than 2000, you should seriously consider upgrading, but you may proceed directly to registration... for now.

I've run the HCT over and over again and/or I keep trying to update my computer by going to Microsoft Update (for Windows)/Software Update (for Macs), but there are one or two updates that just won't install successfully. What should I do?

Contact your RCC and, depending on how important the update is, she will help determine whether you can be approved for registration.