Recommendations for Incoming Students
Unsure about which computer to buy? Visit our recommended systems page for suggestions on computers to fit your needs and your major!
Operating System
Incoming students should be running Windows XP, Windows Vista (Business or Ultimate), or Mac OS X. (If buying a new computer, students should purchase it with Vista Home and then buy a Vista upgrade from the Computer Shop for less than $20.) All systems should have all current critical and security updates installed. (Microsoft XP computers should have Service Pack 3 installed, Windows Vista should have service pack 2.) *Older operating systems are still supported on a best effort basis but the bulk of our experience and tools are geared towards XP, Vista, and Mac OS X.
Antivirus
Students should have one (and only one) anti-virus program installed that is updated regularly.
The Computer Store recommends the following antivirus software:
- Sophos Antivirus (available free to students and faculty for download at the link or for pickup at the 501 Bldg)
There are also paid subscription based antivirus software available:
- Norton Anitvirus (also part of Norton Internet Security)
- McAfee Virusscan (also part of McAfee Security Center)Several free programs are available as well:
- Grisoft AVG
- Avast
Anti-spyware
Students should have several anti-spyware programs installed and used regularly. We recommend the following programs:
- Microsoft Security Essentials
- Spybot Search and Destroy
- MalwareBytes
Word Processing
Microsoft Office/Microsoft Word is the most common word processing application. Microsoft Office 2007 is available to students at the UNL Computer stores for under $15.
Wired Network Access
Every UNL Residence Hall room has at least two ethernet capable data ports. (Newer Halls like Husker Village and Husker Courtyards usually have one gray data port in each bedroom and one in the common area.) Almost all newer computers come standard with built-in ethernet cards. Ethernet cables are available for purchase at the UNL Computer Stores.
Wireless Network Access
Every Residence Hall has wireless network access, (connect to UNL-AIR), but you must register the wireless network card's physical address, (also called the MAC address). Once registered, you will be able to access the network wirelessly anywhere UNL-AIR is available on campus.
You can register for wireless here.
Help finding your wireless card's MAC address is available here or by calling 472-3535.
Network Devices
Do not bring a router (wireless or wired), hub or switch onto campus, especially into the Residence Halls. It will cause conflicts on the University Network and will get your port shut off. This is an Information Services Networking Policy and is necessary to protect the integrity of the network.
Stop at any any of our three locations to check out the latest iPods and accessories!
