Washington College provides its students with access to Windows and Macintosh computers in the Computing Centers, the Library, and in the public access locations within the residence halls. These computers are free to all members of the Washington College Community. While these public computer areas provide students with access, students must share them with classes and workshops. Because of this, it is strongly recommended students purchase or bring their own personal computer to college.

Washington College is networked using Ethernet. Through the College's Ethernet connection every residence hall room has direct access to our network and the Internet.

There is wireless access available in all the residence halls except in the small cottages where only three or four people reside.

If you are considering buying a new computer, it's important to decide which computer to purchase (e.g. Macintosh or Windows) and how much money you want to spend. The College supports both the Macintosh and Windows platforms. Review the Computer Recommendations when making your decision.

This depends on your preference. If you are committed to, or leaning towards, a specific discipline that may also impact your decision. For example the business management field generally relies on Windows computers. Disciplines requiring graphics and multimedia tend to use the Macintosh. You should check with others in your field to determine which computer they are using and why. Review the Computer Recommendations when making your decision.

Network Cards - If you have or are purchasing a computer, make sure your wireless card is compatible with the IEEE 802.11b and 802.11g wireless network standard. This enables the user to connect to the network with more versatility anywhere on campus that is within range of a wireless location.

Printer: Having your own printer is convenient. While Washington College provides printing in the computer labs and the library, it is usually more convenient to be able to print in your room. Inkjet or LaserJet printers can be purchased at very reasonable prices.

USB Drive, CD-ROM, DVD or similar portable storage technology: These devices are particularly desirable for storing large files.

Speakers and a soundcard: Some professors supplement class materials with audio content on CD-ROM or on the web. Students participating in academic classes that use this technology will need access to sound capabilities. Most new computers have sound integrated or included with the system.

Review the Computer Recommendations before choosing peripherals .

If you are planning to bring a computer you already own to college, please check it against our minimum system requirements to ensure that it will work well in the Washington College environment. Review the Computer Recommendations as you decide if you will bring your existing computer to campus.

The College provides students with access to anti-virus software at no charge. We encourage faculty, staff and students to use anti-virus software and to update their virus definitions frequently.

Software that is required for a specific academic purpose (statistics, math, chemistry, etc.) is available on public access computers. Software programs such as Microsoft Word®, Excel®, and PowerPoint® are highly recommended but are not supplied by the College.

Big savings on Microsoft Office Professional, and other Microsoft software, is available to Washington College students, faculty, and staff at College's Software Distribution web site. You can access the web site at http://washcoll.e-academy.com. To purchase software at this site you must have a valid Washington College email address. You will receive your College email address when you attend Summer Registration Days in June.

Washington College is pleased to announce that beginning in the Fall 2007 semester students will be able to purchase cell phone plans through the College. There are many advantages to the plans that are still being negotiated. When more detailed information is available it will be posted on the Office of Information Technologies web site located at http://oit.washcoll.edu/resourcedirectory.php under the Telephone and Mail section. If you are considering purchasing a cell phone plan in the near future, you may want to wait to see the plans available through the Washington College Student Cell Phone Program.

If you still need assistance or have questions, please contact the HelpDesk at 410-778-7777 or email the HelpDesk at helpdesk@washcoll.edu.