The College does not require students to bring a personal computer, however almost all of our students do bring one, usually a laptop. Current Windows or Macintosh computers both work well in our network environment. Here are some general recommendations.
- Processor
Get the best processor you can afford, it cannot be upgraded later. The processor (Intel or AMD multi-core) is the most important component of the computer's hardware. - Memory
RAM memory allows your system to "multitask". The more RAM your PC has the better it will handle working on several tasks at once. 2-4GB RAM is recommended, and in most cases RAM can be upgraded after purchasing the computer. - Warranty
We highly recommend that you purchase extended manufacturer's or other extended warranty coverage. If possible get a 3 or 4-year plan to cover the length of time you are here at school. Some manufacturers offer accident protection plans as well. Our Helpdesk is very good, but we are unable to provide the kind of hardware support that a good warranty covers. - Software
- Please do not purchase Microsoft Office with your new computer. With Microsoft's Campus Agreement, we are able to provide students with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.) at no cost.
- Please do purchase and activate antivirus or security software- as it is required on student computers. There are free security packages available on the internet, Microsoft Security Essentials and AVG Free, for example.
- Wireless & Printing
The campus has complete wireless coverage. As with cell phones, wireless network signal strength can vary from place to place. As a backup, we recommend having an Ethernet patch cable in your computer kit. They are available in the bookstore.
If you plan to bring a printer please understand that wireless printing features will not work with our campus wireless network configuration. Make sure you bring a cable to connect your personal printer. Also, all of our student-accessible labs have fast laser printers. We encourage our students to be mindfully conservative of their paper usage.
Network connection and/or general support is not provided for older versions of Windows (95, 98, ME, NT) or alternative operating systems such as Linux.
Student owned computers must meet minimum security requirements in order to connect to the campus network and internet. Please be sure to have active and up-to-date internet security product on your computer.
Please call the HelpDesk at 603 526 3800 or email helpdesk@colby-sawyer.edu with any questions about campus technology.
