System Requirements

ResTek recommends the following components for students bringing their own computer for use in the Residence Halls. All information is current for the 2008-2009 academic year.

If you are interested in purchasing a new computer, the AS Bookstore has special deals available for Western students from Dell or Gateway. Students can also receive a discount from Apple.

Recommended computer configurations

If you are selecting a new computer to bring to campus, ResTek makes the following recommendations for specifics on your computer. Keep in mind, individual students computer needs may vary depending on academic major and extracurricular interests.

Desktop recommendations
Operating System: Windows Vista / Windows XP / Mac OS X
Processor Speed: Core 2 Duo 2.0 GHz or better
RAM (Memory): 1 GB or better, 2 GB for Vista users
Hard Disk: 40 GB (5400RPM or faster)
Monitor: 17″ supporting at least a 1024 x 768 resolution
CD-ROM: any speed DVD or better
Ethernet: 10/100 Base-T adapter card
Sound System: Sound card and speakers

Laptop recommendations
Operating System: Windows Vista / Windows XP / Mac OS X
Processor Speed: Core 2 Duo 2.0 GHz or better
RAM (Memory): 1 GB or better, 2 GB for Vista users
Hard Disk: 40 GB (5400RPM)
Monitor: 12-inch TFT display or better
CD-ROM: any speed DVD or better
Ethernet: 10/100 Base-T adaptor card
Sound System: included with system

Operating systems

You must have your original operating system install/restore disks to receive help reinstalling your operating system. ResTek cannot provide these disks.

Windows
Vista / XP – Fully supported by ResTek
2000 / ME / 98 / 95 – ResTek does not support these operating systems. Please upgrade.

NOTE: ResTek only offers support for Windows Operating Systems that are covered under Microsoft’s Mainstream support. For more information, see Microsoft’s Product Life Cycle.

Mac
OS X – Fully supported by ResTek
Mac OS 9 and earlier – ResTek does not support these operating systems

Linux
ResTek does not provide direct support for Linux, BSD, etc. However, we will provide information about our network to assist Linux users in configuring their computers to access our network. The Student Forums are an excellent resource for students looking for more information and discussion on Linux-related topics.

Security requirements

In order to keep the network safe and clean for all users, students are required to comply with our policies.

The security requirements for 2008-2009 are:

A virus scanner that is updated with the latest virus defintions. (Windows users)
An operating system that is supported by its manufacturer
All critical updates for their operating system
Service Pack 3 (Windows XP users)
Service Pack 1 (Windows Vista users)

To connect using Ethernet you will need:

Desktops

PCI card: 10/100 base-T
Ethernet patch cable (RJ-45)

laptops

PCMCIA card: 10/100 Base-T
Ethernet patch cable (RJ-45)

NOTE: New computers come with an Ethernet card already installed. You do not need to purchase an additional one.

Keep your installation disks for your Ethernet card available, as it is sometimes necessary to uninstall/reinstall your adapter. ResTek cannot provide these disks.

You can purchase an Ethernet card and patch cable at the Associated Students Bookstore on campus, or from a local computer vendor.

Wireless access

Wireless access is available in select Residence Hall lounges, and in several locations on campus. (See the Routers and wireless page for more details).

Students may set up their own wireless router in their room, but are advised to set them up correctly. If set up incorrectly, wireless routers can cause problems on the Residential Network.