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Purchasing a computer

Do I need to bring a computer to campus?

�鶹��Ƶ does not require students to bring their own computers to campus, however, many choose to bring one. If you are unsure about purchasing a computer, we suggest that you spend some time on campus before making a decision.

Should I get a laptop or a desktop computer?

There are many advantages to bringing a laptop to campus:

• They are easier to transport, allowing you to take notes in class, or do homework from virtually anywhere. When problems arise, it's much easier to bring a laptop to the Technology Helpline for quick help or virus removal than a bulky desktop machine.
• With the convenience of the �鶹��Ƶ Wireless Network, you'll be able to access the Internet anywhere on campus.

On the other hand, laptops have a few disadvantages to desktops:

• Laptops are often more expensive than a comparable desktop.
• Their smaller size and portability often make them more prone to theft and damage.
• Laptops are more difficult to upgrade, therefore making it necessary to replace it sooner.

We suggest that your choice reflect your own lifestyle, habits, and personal preferences.

What kind of computer should I get? Macintosh, Chromebook, or Windows?

Your platform choice should be determined by your relative comfort level and previous experience with each operating system. �鶹��Ƶ owns and supports all platforms, so the decision is completely yours to make. If you are interested in a Google Chromebook, please see our Chromebook web page. Some textbooks come with software that is not web-based, where Chromebooks are not supported by the publisher.

Are there any computer purchasing programs at �鶹��Ƶ?

�鶹��Ƶ does not sell computers to students, faculty or staff but does maintain a relationship with , , and allowing community members to purchase computers and supplies at an educational discount direct from the vendor. Please use the following links to ensure you receive educational pricing.

• Please visit the or call 1-800-My-APPLE.
• Please visit the .
• Please visit the or call 1-800-987-3555.

Note: Almost all vendors have educational discounts for students, faculty and staff. All you have to do is ask.

FREE SOFTWARE Microsoft Office 365 is currently available for FREE to download for current �鶹��Ƶ students and employees.

Also, community members are able to buy certain software and some hardware at educational discounts from stores and directly from their website such as Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Dreamweaver, InDesign, etc). Remember to always ask for an academic discount. You might be asked to supply an ID or email address.

Do I need to bring a wireless router to campus?

No. Too many wireless access points in a small area can generate a substantial amount of interference, degrading everybody's wireless experience. For best performance, we recommend that students use the college's wireless. It is available in all residence halls.

Can I bring a streaming device to campus?

Yes, definitely! Devices such as a Smart TV, Smart Blu-ray players, Apple TVs, and the Nexus Player work well on our network to stream Netflix, Hulu, etc. However, Screen-casting from a cell phone/tablet to the device currently isn't supported. We recommend that when using these devices, you use an ethernet (RJ45) cable (provided free by Technology Services). If you haven't purchased a Blu-ray player or TV yet, look for a wired ethernet (RJ45) port on the back when purchasing. Please see our recommended streaming devices list - /gts/Streaming_Device

What are the minimum requirements for the computer I bring to �鶹��Ƶ?

Before connecting to the campus network, all computers must have current virus protection and up-to-date , along with the following list of minimum requirements:

Requirement	Windows	Macintosh
Operating System	Windows 7	Macintosh OS 10.10 or higher
Networking	5GHz Dual Band Wireless AC (aka A/B/G/N/AC or A/G/N/AC), Built-in 10/100/1000BASE-T Gigabit Ethernet (RJ-45 connector) access available in most campus spaces.
Anti-Virus Software	Microsoft Security Essentials or Windows Defender (free, built into Windows 8/10)
Current Security Patches		Run Software Update

What are the recommended specifications for my computer at �鶹��Ƶ?

Recommendation	Windows	Macintosh
Operating System	Windows 10 (any variety)	Macintosh OS 10.12
RAM	8 GB or higher	8 GB or higher
Connectivity	5GHz Dual Band Wireless AC (aka A/B/G/N/AC or A/G/N/AC), Built-in 10/100/1000BASE-T Gigabit Ethernet (RJ-45 connector)
Processor	6th Gen Intel i5	6th Gen Intel i5
Hard Drive	256GB SSD or larger	256GB SSD or larger
Warranty	3 year warranty	AppleCare Protection Plan

Generally the "business class" models are more durable and come with longer warranties.

What did students bring to campus in September of 2016?

Roughly 50% of first year students brought a Macintosh computer to campus, and 50% brought a Windows-based computer. The number of Macintosh computers brought to campus has gone up steadily over the last few years.

Students in the fall of 2013 brought mostly laptops to campus, while a small percentage brought desktop computers.

What do I need to connect to the �鶹��Ƶ network?

For your computer to access the network with a wired connection, you will need an Ethernet card (for all new computers this is standard), and an Ethernet cable. Ethernet cables will be provided to all first-year students—they will be available at the Technology Services office in Olin for free. If you purchase a Macbook Air or other ultrabooks, we have USB-ethernet adapters available for your use to utilize the wired network.

To access the wireless network, you will need a computer with a built-in or external wireless card, and be in range of a wireless signal. All laptops today will have a wireless card pre-installed. It is possible to add a wireless card to a desktop computer, however plugging in your computer to the wired Ethernet will provide you better results.

How do I have the best wireless network experience at �鶹��Ƶ?

When buying a computer, double check that it comes with a 5GHz wireless card built-in. While Macintosh laptops come with them standard, most PC laptops do not come with 5GHz wireless cards in the preconfigured models in stores. Find out if you can order the laptop with a 5GHz wireless card, or purchase your computer straight from the manufacturer. Purchasing a 5GHz laptop