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New Student IT FAQ
Welcome to Fordham! Many new students and parents have a lot of questions regarding the purchase of a computer, technology support, equipment and software. The following list of questions and answers has been compiled by Fordham IT staff to help get you started.
1. Are students required to purchase their own computers?
No, students are not required to purchase a computer. There are hundreds of computers available for student use in computer labs and the library. However, most students like the convenience of being connected to the Fordham Network and the Internet in their room.
2. What type of computer should I buy: Windows or Macintosh?
The choice is strictly up to you. Both operating systems are well supported at Fordham. The most useful software packages (i.e., word processing, spreadsheets, communication software, and web browsers) perform equally well on both platforms and look similar regardless of platform. Some academic programs that rely heavily on business-oriented software are better served by the Windows platform, and there certainly is more general-purpose software being written for this environment. But some academic programs that rely heavily on graphics and multimedia software are better served by the Macintosh platform.
3. Should I get a desktop or laptop computer?
This is a choice that depends on your personal preference. In general, hardware for desktop computers is easier to service and easier and less expensive to upgrade. Laptops are generally more expensive but allow you to take your work with you, and the Fordham campus is equipped for wireless network connections, (remember to get a wireless card in your computer).
4. Do I need to purchase anti-virus software?
No! The University has licensed Symantec Anti-virus scanning software free to all students. Prior to your arrival on campus will receive the Student Resource CD, on which you will find the installation file for Symantec. You will not be allowed on the Fordham network without anti-virus software. MacAfee and Trend-Micro anti-virus applications are also supported.
5. Do I need to have a printer in the residence hall at Fordham?
You do not need to bring a printer, as printers are available in the Public Computing Labs on campus, but you may find it convenient to have a printer in your room.
6. Do I need an Ethernet card?
If you live on campus, you will need a 10baseT Ethernet adapter (also known as a Network Interface Card) and a CAT5 Ethernet cable to connect to the Fordham University network. Every student, living on campus, is assigned an Ethernet jack.
7. Can I get special computer deals as a Fordham University student?
Yes. Fordham University has worked with Dell, Lenovo, Apple and HP to create educational pricing that is beneficial to our students. For more information on pricing, please visit the computer purchase website: http://www.fordham.edu/studentcomputerpurchases
8. What about e-mail accounts?
Once you are admitted to Fordham University, you can access your account by visiting the following website: http://studentmail.fordham.edu. You may begin using your e-mail account immediately.
9. What is My.Fordham.edu and what do I use it for?
My.Fordham.edu is Fordham University's online portal, through which you can access your email, blackboard, grades, register for classes, and financial & personal information. To access the portal, visit My.Fordham.edu
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