Computer, Network, and Technology Overview
Let's face it -- computers have become an important tool for many university students. Here at University of the Ozarks, access to our campus computer network and to the Internet is provided to any student who chooses to bring his or her personal computer to the residence halls. This page outlines the hardware and software requirements for all student-owned computers that will be connected to the campus network. It also explains the responsibilities we expect students to take to help maintain the university's computer systems in optimum operating condition.
- Approved Operating Systems:
- Windows XP Professional (Recommended)
- Windows XP Home
- Windows Vista
Windows 95, 98 and 2000 are not approved, as they are no longer supported by Microsoft.
- Minimum Approved Hardware:
- Pentium 3 Processor
- 256 MB RAM
- 40 GB Hard Drive
- 10/100 Ethernet Card (Wireless Network is NOT permitted, due to security concerns).
- Cat 5E RJ45 Ethernet Cable
Because computer technology changes so rapidly, a computer which meets the minimum approved hardware recommendations may not be robust enough to get you through four years of school. If you are in the process of buying a computer to bring to school, we strongly suggest you follow these preferred hardware recommendations:
- Preferred Hardware Recommendations:
- Pentium 4 Processor
- 512MB or 1Gig RAM
- 80 GB Hard Drive
- 10/100 Ethernet Card (Wireless network is not permitted due to security concerns)
- Cat 5E RJ45 Ethernet Card (Cat 5 or 6 will not work)
Requests to connect a computer that does not meet the minimum requirements must be submitted in writing to the University's Computer Services department. Computer Services has sole discretion in granting or denying network access to these computers.
- Required Software
- Ant-virus software with up-to-date signature files
- Microsoft Office Professional Suite (recommended)
- Microsoft Office Standard (doesn't include Microsoft Access)
- Microsoft Works (May not include a compatible PowerPoint program)
Most students need Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint. Business students typically need Microsoft Access in addition to the programs already mentioned.
- Network Requirements
- You must agree to the terms of the university's acceptable use policy and sign the legal agreement before your network logon I.D. will be activated.
- Computer Services must be given the opportunity to conduct a Computer Health Check on your computer before it is connected to the campus network. The check will include inspection, applying system updates, cleaning viruses, etc., and installing anti-virus and anti-spyware software on your computer if necessary. Inspection times and locations can be obtained from the offices of Student Life or Computer Services. If you arrive late on campus, you are still required to make arrangements with Computer Services to complete your Computer Health Check prior to connecting to the network.
- It is YOUR responsibility to maintain your computer system. Windows Updates must be installed as they become available. You must keep your virus signatures up-to-date and scan your computer on a regular basis for spyware, Trojan Horses and viruses.You may, however, contact Computer Services to assist you if you discover that your computer is infected with a Trojan Horse or computer virus.
- You must resgister your computer with Computer Services prior to using the Ozarks network.
The university understands the importance of maintaining your privacy. However, these security checks and system requirements are necessary to keep our network running reliably. New students moving onto campus should check the PC Health Check schedule the first day on campus to complete the computer health check and registration.
