Recommended Configuration for Student Computers

Microsoft Windows

Operating System

  • Windows 7 (Home Premium or better)

Hardware

  • at least 4GB RAM
  • at least 250GB hard drive
  • 10/100 wired Ethernet port
  • Ethernet cable (CAT5, not more than 10' long)
  • Wireless adapter (802.11b/g/n)
  • USB flash drive (optional, but recommended for backing up and transporting files)

Software

  • Microsoft Office Suite 2010 (must include Word, Excel and PowerPoint)
  • Antivirus software with real-time protection & automatic updates

Warranty

We recommend an extended 3-year warranty.

Mac OS

Operating System

  • OS X (10.6.8 or newer)

Hardware

  • at least 4GB RAM
  • at least 250GB hard drive
  • 10/100 wired Ethernet port
  • Ethernet Cable (CAT5, not more than 10' long)
  • AirPort wireless
  • USB flash drive (optional, but recommended for backing up and transporting files)

Software

  • Microsoft Office Suite 2011
    (must include Word, Excel and PowerPoint)

Warranty

We recommend an extended 3-year warranty. Apple offers the Apple Care Protection Plan. For more information, visit http://www.apple.com/support/products

Wireless

Wireless access is currently available in most residential locations, and in other select locations on campus. Students are not allowed to bring their own wireless access points (WAPs) for use on campus.

For your reference:

Wireless Locations on Campus

Wireless Internet Policy

If you have any questions about the above recommendations, or if you already own a computer which you would like to bring to campus with you, please email the Help Desk at helpdesk@dickinson.edu or call 717-245-1000, and we will be happy to answer questions about your system and its compatibility with Dickinson's network.