| 1. Are students required to purchase their own computers? |
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| 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. |
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2. What type of computer should I buy: Windows or Macintosh?
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| 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. |
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3. Should I get a desktop or laptop computer?
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| 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). |
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| 4. Do I need to purchase anti-virus software? |
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| 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. |
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5. Do I need to have a printer in the residence hall at Fordham?
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| 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. |
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| 6. Do I need an Ethernet card? |
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| 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 is assigned an Ethernet jack. If you live off campus, you can connect via remote access. |
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| 7. Can I get special computer deals as a Fordham University student? |
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| Yes. Fordham University has worked with Dell, Lenovo, Apple and HP to create educational pricing that is beneficial to our students. Please visit the computerpurchase website: http://www.fordham.edu/computerpurchases for information on pricing. |
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| 8. What about email accounts? |
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| 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. |
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| 9. What is OASIS and what do I use it for? |
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| OASIS is Online Access to the Student Information System where you will register for classes, print out your schedule or get grades. To log onto Oasis you will need your Student Identification Number and your Personal Identification Number (PIN). To access OASIS go to: http://oasis.fordham.edu |
