1. Should I buy a Laptop or Desktop?
2. Should I buy an Apple or PC?
3. Can I configure (change the specifications) of any of the Systems?
4. What software do I need?
5. Internet access – wired or wireless?
6. Where can I get my computer serviced?
7. General

Should I buy a Laptop or Desktop?

[Since most other considerations depend on this decision, you should start your decision-making process with this question. Laptops are very popular among college students because of the portability and flexibility they provide. Students can take Laptops to the library, classes or home on breaks. However, desktops are generally more expandable than Laptops. Moreover, although Brown is a safe campus, extra caution must be taken to protect Laptops against theft. Security locks and tracking/retrieval software can be purchased to protect Laptops.]

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Should I buy an Apple or PC?

[Given today's operating systems, in ease of use and simplicity, both Apples and PCs are excellent. Apple products offer good value, processing power, and elegance. PCs do offer a larger selection of software, hardware, and operating systems. Brown's internal systems are platform-independent and CIS supports both flavors of hardware and software. Familiarity and departmental preferences should decide your choice. Minimum and recommended configurations for computing at Brown can be found at this link: http://www.brown.edu/Facilities/CIS/Software_Services/policies/hardware.html]

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Can I configure (change the specifications) of any of the Systems?

[The Dimension and Inspiron machines are completely customizable! Our Latitude and Optiplex packages are customizable to a limited extent. These specifications are usually upgraded to the next logical step up. To configure a package, please call us (800-695-2050 or 401-863-7289), E-mail us (Computer_Store@brown.edu), or fill out an entry on our Request & Track Form stating which package you want to change, and what you would like to change. ]

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What software do I need?

[ Once you have decided on a computer, you need to decide what applications you need. Check to see what software comes with the computer you ordered. All will come with an operating system.

Three basic software applications are word processing, web-browsing, and email. Standard word processing programs such as Microsoft Office and AppleWorks are available at the Computer Store at deep academic discounts.

Web-browsing software such as Microsoft's Internet Explorer or Netscape from Netscape is often included with systems, if not they can be downloaded for free. Other software requirements vary depending on interest and major. ]

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Internet access – wired or wireless

[On campus, you will need a 10/100 Ethernet network card in your computer or built-in wireless card. Off campus you will need a modem in your computer for dial-up access or a cable modem for high speed. (See High Speed cable access, see the special Brown-Cox offering on the home page or call the Brown-Cox rep. Lisa Lebrun at (401) 523-3088 or (401) 383-1308.

CIS has compiled step-by-step guides to help you getting your system online. They can be found at the following:

Getting Connected: Using Windows XP on the Network
Getting Connected: Using a Mac on the Network ]

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Where can I get my computer serviced?

[SERVICE & REPAIR - The Computer Store maintains a full service  Service & Repair center, managed by an MCSE. For schedule of services please check the Service page on this site.  We are authorized to perform warranty service for Dell, Apple and other major brands.]

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General

[Academic Status -  Do I Have to Prove My/Son or Daughter's Academic Status? We do not need direct verification as long as you are confirmed as being enrolled into Brown University]

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