Focus - Essential Information
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COMPUTER & INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

BRINGING A COMPUTER FROM HOME - FAQ's

Do I need my own computer and printer?
Plenty of computers are available in the general computer access lab, the library, the student center, and academic buildings so you should always have access to a computer for school work, e-mail, and the Internet. Whether or not you bring your own computer generally depends on your individual preference and convenience. Each of the residence hall rooms has two Ethernet connections for high-speed Internet access. Apartments also have Ethernet jacks for each occupant.

With your high-speed Internet connection, you are able to access your campus email and log on to the Student Information System, which is used to register for classes, view your class schedules, monitor your degree progress, and more. Some courses will also require that you use our web-based course management software Desire2Learn and online library databases. If you need other software on your computer, you will need to purchase and install it. You will not have access to any of the specialty instructional software that is found on student lab workstations. Black & white and color printers are available in the General Computer Access Labs on campus, but most students enjoy the convenience of a printer in their room.

How many students own computers? What if I don't bring a computer to campus?
While the majority of UW-Green Bay students bring a computer to campus, you should keep in mind that you have free access to more than 260 computers (PCs and Macs) in general access computer labs across campus. Many students can also use computers in designated specialty labs. In addition, there is on-the-go access to several computer kiosk stations in the University Union.

Do I need to buy a NEW computer or can I just bring an older one from home?
You don't need a new computer, but you do need a computer with ample processing speed and memory and the capability to support fast network connections. We recommend PCs with at least Pentium III-equivalent processors and 256MB memory or Macs with at least G3 processors and 256MB memory.

What kinds of computers do you recommend?
Students are encouraged to compare prices with local vendors or other national brands such as Dell, HP, Gateway, IBM & Apple.

Should I get a laptop or desktop computer?
This depends on how you plan to use your computer. In general, a desktop will meet most student computing needs and will provide a comfortable working environment with a larger screen, keyboard and mouse. Some students may want a laptop for increased mobility, class use, collaboration, and more flexible access to the Web and email. The drawbacks of laptops include their smaller keyboards and screens, and the additional cost to buy, repair and upgrade them.

Should I get a Macintosh or PC (Windows-based) computer?
Both platforms are used and supported on the UW-Green Bay campus, and both provide the necessary student computing tools. A good rule of thumb is, "go with what you know." Students face many new challenges when starting college, so it is best to avoid any unnecessary changes like learning a new operating system. You may also want to consult your major area of study for any specific recommendations.

What software do I need?
We recommend recent versions of the following software:

  • Operating System (Microsoft Windows XP, Mac OS X 10.3)
  • Web browser (Internet Explorer on a PC; Internet Explorer or Safari on a Mac)
  • Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
  • Antivirus Software - Students can download McAfee at no cost from the campus web site;
    http://www.uwgb.edu/compserv/software/downloads.htm

Where can I purchase software?
The Wisconsin Integrated Software Catalog (WISC) enables students throughout the University of Wisconsin and Wisconsin Technical College Systems to purchase popular software packages from Microsoft, Adobe, SPSS, Mathematica, Quark, Corel, FileMaker, and Apple at substantial discounts. The WISC Web site, http://wiscsoftware.wisc.edu/wisc/ provides a complete list of discounted applications, ordering information, installation instructions, and technical support resources. You must be an enrolled, degree-seeking student at a University of Wisconsin or a Wisconsin Technical College campus to order WISC software. Incoming students will be able to order from the online ordering system after completing registration. The system will verify each user for eligibility based upon their campus logon (username and password). All users must agree to adhere to the various product licensing agreements. You can shop online 24 hours a day. Shipping is free.