Purchasing Computers and Software
Although Fairfield University maintains numerous computer labs that are open to all students, many undergraduates choose to purchase their own desktop or laptop systems for use in their Residence Hall rooms. While the Computing & Network Services department does not sell machines to students, we do make recommendations on systems and configurations that we believe are reliable, cost-effective, and fully compatible with the University's standard software and network configurations.
Student Discount on Microsoft Office (Windows and Mac)
Microsoft Windows
Microsoft Office Professional Academic 2010 - $99.95
Want to buy Microsoft Office 2010 (which includes Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Access, Publisher, OneNote) for $100? Once you have your windows computer, download and install a copy of Office Professional Academic 2010 when you use your Fairfield University provided e-mail address (@student.fairfield.edu).
Apple Mac
Office for MAC Academic 2011 - $99.95
Want to buy Microsoft Office 2011 (which includes Word, Excel, Outlook,PowerPoint) for $100? Once you have your Apple Mac computer, download and install a copy of Office for MAC Academic 2011when you use your Fairfield University provided e-mail address (@student.fairfield.edu).
Hardware Requirements
Network Connectivity (Windows and Mac)
To connect to the University network your computer should have both an ethernet port/card (for wired connections) and a wireless card (for wireless connections). Students are strongly suggested to purchase an ethernet cable (network cable) to utilize the wired connection which is 50% faster than wireless and more stable.
Ethernet cables can be purchased at the University Bookstore in addition to many other stores.
Most (if not all) current Windows and Mac computers come with the necessary ports/hardware to connect to Fairfield's wired and wireless network.
Hardware Requirements - RAM Memory (Windows and Mac)
We recommend that any computers have a minimum of 2-4 gigabytes (GB) of RAM installed to take full advantage of network services and assure that future operating systems run smoothly on your computer.
Purchasing a New Computer
Microsoft Windows
The University's preferred provider for a Microsoft Windows computer is Hewlett-Packard (HP) through CDW-G. Any newly purchased HP laptop or desktop machine will sufficient to get on the University's network.
Purchase a recommended HP computer with an education discount. Please note, only a 60 day trial of Microsoft Office is included in these bundles, but can be added to your order through the CDW-G website or purchased separately.
Your new computer should have a minimum of 2 gigabytes (GB) of RAM, but optimally 4GB is preferred if possible.
Please remember that Fairfield University Student Computing recommends the following additional items:
- Productivity Suite (one of of the following):
- Additional Warranty Coverage
Apple Mac
The University fully supports Apple Mac computers, and maintains a number of Mac labs on campus. Any newly purchased Apple desktop or laptop machine - including the iMac and MacBook - will function on the University's network.
Your new computer should have a minimum of 2 gigabytes (GB) of RAM, but optimally 4GB is preferred if possible.
Purchase a recommended Apple computer with an education discount. Please note, neither Microsoft Office nor Apple iWork is included in these bundles. Either can be added to your order through the Apple website or Microsoft website.
Please remember that Fairfield University Student Computing strongly recommends the following additional items:
- Productivity Suite (one of the following):
- Extended Warranty and additional Accidental Insurance (You should have both)
- AppleCare 4-Year Protection Plan (included in our bundles, accidents not covered)
- Accidental Insurance not available through Apple, but can be purchased through 3rd-party vendors who are not affiliated with Fairfield University (not included in our bundles)
| Student Computing Contact Information | |
| Phone: | (203) 254-4069 Option 1 |
| E-mail: | studentcomputing@fairfield.edu |
| AIM: | FFLDUSTUDENTCOMP |
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