NOTE: This page is updated each spring for the next academic year.

As an NC State student, you can use a state-of-the-art campus data network and state-of-the-art computer labs, but you may also find it very helpful to have your own computer on campus. This page offers topics to consider as you decide whether to bring a computer with you.

• Do I really need my own personal computer at NC State?
• What specifications should my computer have?
• What are some of my purchasing options?
• What should I bring with my computer?
• Will I need a personal printer?
• What software will I need?
• What about maintenance and repair?
• How about theft deterrence?
• How do I connect my computer to the campus network?

Do I really need my own personal computer at NC State?

NC State does not require or expect you to have your own computer.  However, your college or department may do so.  For example:

• The College of Engineering expects all incoming undergraduates to have a laptop that meets College of Engineering Computer Specifications. 
• The College of Design and the College of Education require that students have a computer at the beginning of their second year that meets College of Design and College of Education specs.
• College of Management students will need access to a computer that will run application software compatible with MS Windows XP or better.

What specifications should my computer have?

Before you buy a computer, be sure to read:

• New computer - Minimum recommendations
• Computer you already own - Minimum recommendations
• Recommendations of your college or department (if applicable).

The OIT recommendations are updated each spring and are available by New Student Orientation in July. In addition, the page on hardware considerations can help you decide what features you'll need. 

What are some of my purchasing options?

• If you have applied for financial aid and anticipate buying a computer, the Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid can include its cost when they consider you for financial aid only if you purchase it during the summer preceding your fall enrollment or after the fall semester begins. 
• The Computer Connections department at the main NC State Bookstore (919.515.3400) sells computer hardware, provides links to vendors who offer special pricing for NC State students, and sells a wide variety of software at educational discounts. Before you buy, you may want to compare prices there.

What should I bring with my computer?

If you bring your own computer, be sure to include its associated documentation, warranty information, and backup installation disks. Keep these in a safe place in case you need to reinstall or reconfigure any hardware or software.

Will I need a personal printer?

If you bring your computer to campus, consider bringing a printer as well. You may be able to print a document in a computer lab for a fee, depending on the software used to create it. However, it will probably be much more convenient to print in your room. You might also prefer to bring other peripherals, depending on your particular course of study.

What software will I need?

The only software requirement is anti-virus software, but a word processor, spreadsheet, and Web browser are essential. Also, you may want to purchase your own copy of some of the applications used in various classes, including educationally-discounted versions at the NC State Bookstores - Computer Software.

NC State has licensing agreements with software manufacturers and suppliers. For a complete listing of available software, see Software@NCState.

What about maintenance and repair?

We highly recommend purchasing a full 3-year on-site maintenance and repair agreement offered by your computer's manufacturer. Also see the page on computer repairs.

How about theft deterrence

To discourage theft, it is a good idea to engrave your driver's license or ID number (NOT your Social Security number) on all computer equipment you bring to campus. NC State Campus Police, building # 238 campus map central, offers engraving services. If you have a laptop, keep a separate record of its serial number and the Ethernet address of any Ethernet card you have. Also see Safe Computing at NC State.

How do I connect my computer to the campus network?

There are several other options for connecting your computer to the campus network, depending on where you live. See Welcome to Network, Voice & Video for details. Also see Wireless access to NC State's campus network and Wireless Frequently Asked Questions.