Frequently Asked Questions about Computers

I already have a desktop computer - do I need to buy a notebook?
Yes.  Several courses will require that you use your notebook in class.

I already have a notebook computer – will this be sufficient?
The decision to upgrade your notebook computer is a personal one.  If your notebook computer was purchased in the last two years, you most likely do not need to buy a new one. Please see the Official Computer requirement and view the minimum computer configuration.

What software will I need?
All of the required software will be provided to you by the University as part of a site license including:

•  Microsoft Office 2003 Professional (provided by Drexel)
  - PowerPoint
  - Excel
  - Access
  - Word
  - Outlook
  - Publisher
  
• Microsoft Internet Explorer 6.0
• Norton AntiVirus (provided by Drexel)

What is the difference between Microsoft Windows XP Professional
and Microsoft Office 2003 Professional?
Windows XP Professional is the operating system that we recommend you get on your notebook. When you buy a new notebook you may be able to choose what operating system it will come with. We recommend that you select Windows XP Professional, however if your notebook comes with Windows XP Home Edition, you will be able to upgrade to Windows XP Professional under Drexel's site license at no additional charge.

Office 2003 Professional is the software package that contains the 6 programs listed above. You will be able to download this for free. You can install and run Office 2003 Professional on a computer running any Operating System, however we recommend Windows XP Professional Operating System.

What type of wireless network adapter should I have?
Drexel recommends an internal wireless 802.11a/b/g compliant Wi-Fi adapter. If you have an older notebook, you can also add an external wireless ethernet card. If an external card is opted, make sure it has security encryption capability. External cards can be ordered online or at many computer stores.

How do I set up my wireless ethernet on my notebook?
Before you can use the wireless service on campus, you must register your specific wireless hardware on-line with Drexel IRT.  Go to Drexel's Dragonfly site http://inside.drexel.edu/dragonfly to register and get more help. More information about this can be found in the Computer Checklist section of this website.

Will the wireless signal from Queen Lane reach beyond the campus?
No. The signal will cover the front courtyard and the shuttle stop, but will not cross over Queen Lane and into apartments or houses.

I have a network jack on my laptop, can I just use that?
No. On campus, we do not provide hard wired networks jacks for you to plug in your notebook using your standard (10 Base-T or 100 Base-T) ethernet jack. Most notebooks come with a standard RJ-45 ethernet jack and we advise that you make sure you noteook has this. Note: if you plan to get cable modem or DSL service in your home, you should make sure that your notebook has this.

Is a high-speed connection at home like DSL or Cable Modem required?
No. We don't require you to have an internet connection at home since you can access the Internet on campus with your wireless. However, since checking e-mail is a requirement we recommend you do have an internet connection at home.  A high-speed connection will allow you to access the Internet at much faster speeds and make watching lecture videos and downloads from home much more enjoyable. 

Local contacts for various internet services:

• DSL (Digital Subscriber Line)
  Check with Verizon at www.verizon.net for availability at your location
  
• Cable Modem
  Check with your local cable TV provider, typically Comcast at www.comcast.com