Is a laptop or a desktop preferable?
Laptops are not required in the classroom, so the choice of using a laptop or a desktop is a personal one. Students should examine their computing needs and habits to determine whether a desktop or laptop best suits their needs.

Desktop computers offer more for the money, and are usually easier to upgrade. On the other hand, laptops provide students with the flexibility of using the computer almost anywhere. However, that also means they are easily dropped and can be left in non-secured places. We do recommend a security cable for each laptop. A variety of economical cable locks are available for purchase at the college book store.

What does ENC recommend for a student computer?
ENC recommends a computer with:

• Intel Core 2 Duo Processor
• 1 (or more) gigabytes of RAM (2 GB minimum for Windows Vista)
• 40+ gigabyte hard drive
• Windows XP Pro (XP Pro is recommended, XP Home will do)
• MS Office (not MS Works)
• Network Interface Card (10/100Mbps) installed or integrated with the computer
• 802.11x compliant wireless network card
• 32MB or higher Video Card
• 17” Flat panel display
• CD-RW/DVD-ROM

What are the minimum system requirements for the ENC network?
The minimum requirements to be a part of our network are as follows:

• Pentium III
• 512 megabytes RAM
• Windows XP
• 2 GB of unused hard drive space
• Network Interface Card installed or integrated with the computer
• CD-ROM

What is the best way to store and transfer files?
ENC recommends USB Flash drives which can be used in place of floppy or zip disks, and allows a student to easily store, transfer and carry your data with you wherever you go. Flash drives are popular because they can hold a considerable amount of data and are fast, reliable, and portable. You should use caution when sharing files on a flash drive due to the potential to acquire viruses from other computers.

Is there an anti-virus software package ENC recommends?
ENC requires that all students have anti-virus software installed on computers connecting to the network.  ITS will install the SOPHOS Anti-Virus software at no charge for users on the ENC network. Any pre-existing anti-virus software on a student computer will have to be removed or disabled. SOPHOS has similar capabilities to Norton and McAfee packages. Updates will occur automatically from the ENC network.

Does ENC support a wireless network?
Wireless network is available across most campus buildings and a few outdoor areas, including the lawn in front of Gardner Hall, and the picnic table area outside of the Mann Student Center.  For optimal speed and reliability, we recommend that you connect your computer to the network using the Ethernet jack in your room. Information on setting up wireless connectivity.

Does ENC offer any discount on computer purchases?
ENC has teamed up with Dell to offer students, faculty and staff, computer and other equipment at a discount compared to regular Dell web site prices. Learn more.

What about a Macintosh?
For a Macintosh, we recommend Mac OS 10.3, but Mac OS 10.0 will work.

What if I don't have a computer?
ENC has two computer labs available for students.  The main campus lab is located on the ground floor of the Nease Library.  The Old Colony lab is located on the first floor at 180 Old Colony. You will find a variety of PC and MAC machines configured with common software.  We recommend that you have a USB Flash Drive for your personal files.

Does ENC recommend a certain type of printer?
We recommend ink jet printers, preferably an HP, Canon or Epson.

What else should a student bring?
We recommend a student bring any software licenses, restore disks, drivers and surge protectors to handle all electronic items that need to be powered.

Where can I purchase an Ethernet cable?
Students can bring Cat.5 Ethernet cables or purchase them at the college book store.

What are my phone service options?
Dorms are equipped with telephone for on-campus and incoming calls. Off-campus calls require a personal authorization code which can be obtained by completing the Off-Campus/Long Distance agreement (pdf). There is no charge for local calls. Domestic calls are only 7¢ per minute. Students are encouraged to sign up for this service.

Where can I get more information?
Please feel free call the ITS Help Desk at 617-745-3727, e-mail us at its-help@enc.edu or visit the ITS website at http://www.enc.edu/its if you have any questions.