Desktop Services: Computer Hardware/Software Requirements for ResNet and CalvinStudents (Fall 2011 - Summer 2012)

We support both Windows and Mac computers for student use when connecting to ResNet (wired) and CalvinStudents (wireless). Most of Calvin's resident students bring their own computers to campus each year.

Calvin uses the Microsoft Office suite of software: Word, Excel, Powerpoint, and Access. Professors expect electronically submitted files to be in a Microsoft Office readable format.

NOTE: We do not currently support the Linux operating system or any non-English operating system. Students are able to connect to the Calvin network (ResNet or CalvinStudents) with Linux, but CIT does not offer any support for these connections.

Dual-boot operating systems and virtual machines will work on ResNet and CalvinStudents, but the Windows operating system must still meet the requirements listed below.

System Requirements for ResNet and CalvinStudents Support

If you are purchasing a new computer for the 2011-2012 school year and wish to use ResNet and/or CalvinStudents, we recommend the following:

	Mac Compatible	Windows Compatible
Hardware	Desktop, Laptop	Desktop, Laptop, Netbook
Operating system	Mac OS X 10.4.11 or later Mac OS X 10.6.7 (preferred)	Windows XP SP3, Windows Vista SP2 or Windows 7 SP1 (preferred)
RAM	1 GB RAM minimum for HelpDesk support with computer issues 2 GB or higher preferred
Wireless network card	WPA2 encryption and AES compatible. 802.11g or 802.11n capability (802.11a and 802.11b no longer supported)
*Antivirus Software	Symantec Endpoint 11 (Calvin provided). Other accepted applications include the latest versions of AVG, Avast, Kaspersky, McAfee, Microsoft Essentials, Norton, Sophos and Trend Micro.

*Antivirus Software

In order to connect to ResNet or CalvinStudents it is required that you have antivirus software installed, up-to-date and that you regularly update the virus definitions. Calvin provides Symantec Endpoint to all Calvin students free of charge but other antivirus programs are also accepted.

Download Symantec Endpoint

Additional Information

Computer Purchasing FAQ