Cornell University The Johnson School at Cornell University

Computer Requirements and Recommendations

An English, Windows-based laptop computer is required and these are the recommended vendors: Compaq/HP, Dell, Gateway, IBM, and Toshiba. This tool may help you identify the latest products that meet the specifications below: Latest Notebooks.

The Cornell Store has Dell bundled laptop computers that meet or beat our specifications. Order online and have the system shipped to you for $30. Tax applies to orders destined for New York, California, and Indiana. These systems come with Dell CompleteCare and a 3 year warranty. Federal law prohibits the Store from shipping systems out of the country, but they will hold those orders here for pick up.

Laptop Computer Operating System Requirements and Hardware Specifications

Software Requirements

Other Recommended Features and Options
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Wireless Access in Sage Hall
Sage Hall has full (95% coverage) wireless network access for laptops. The wireless network is an 802.11a/b/g standard and may be connected by purchasing your own wireless card or by using your laptop's built-in wireless capability.

Printers
High-speed, high-resolution, black and white and color PostScript laser printers are available in the Workday Computing Laboratory at the Johnson School. These printers can be used from any network connection. Owning your own printer may be both convenient and affordable, but is not required.

External Storage
We recommend a CD-RW, DVD-RW drive, or USB drive to back up your files and email. CD-RW drives are available on all of the lab computers and support inexpensive CD-R and CD-RW media.

Batteries
Most laptops will operate on fully charged batteries without an external power source for 2 to 3 hours. For longer periods of operation without a power source, the purchase of an additional battery is recommended, particularly for use on airplanes.

Drop/Patch/Ethernet Cable
You will need a drop/patch/Ethernet cable to connect to the high-speed campus network in those areas of the school or campus residences that have Ethernet connections but not have wireless connectivity. We recommend a ten-foot length, which allows you to connect to a wall receptacle when you sit at a table. A "stranded" cable is a good option because it twists less when it is rolled up and put away.

Firewall Software
Although Windows has a built-in firewall, it is not robust and prevents only external attacks. It does not prevent inappropriate data from leaving your computer. Cornell has a campus-wide license for the free use of Symantec's Client Firewall. You may want to consider using it instead of the one that comes with Windows.

Anti-Virus Software
We require that all computers used at the Johnson School have virus protection software operating. While some computers come with some form of virus protection software, we recommend Symantec's Anti-Virus. We have a campus-wide license allowing our students to use the software free on their computer.

Anti-Spyware Software
To fully protect your computer, it is necessary to have software that removes "spyware" - hidden software that allows vendors to capture information from your computer. We encourage the use of Spybot and Microsoft's Anti-Spyware Windows Defender software.

Computer Case for Laptops
A padded carrying case will help to protect your laptop and enable you to carry it safely and comfortably. We advise getting one with sufficient room to carry any additional components and supplies you may purchase with your system. You may also consider whether you want a traditional shoulder strap laptop bag or a backpack laptop bag. The backpack has the added benefit of being able to carry your files and books you need for class without being overly bulky.

Security for a Laptop
Since laptops are easily portable, they are unfortunately a target for theft. We suggest you consider buying and using a security cable (for the times when you briefly leave it unattended) and/or insurance to protect your investment. Security cables cost $20-$30. Most insurance polices cost about $100 per year and insure your computer from theft and other forms of damage. Note that the policies do not usually insure the computer for damage that occurs if it is dropped. Your registration packet will include information about insuring your computer. Note that Dell laptops can be acquired with CompleteCare when purchased from the Cornell Store.