Buying the Right Notebook Computer for Law School

There is no requirement that students coming to Law School buy a notebook or desktop computer. However, notebooks offer convenience and flexibility and are popular with law students. Wireless access to the Internet is available throughout the Law School building. Wired connectivity is also available in many carrels in the Law Library and in some classrooms. The following information may help you make the best choice for your computing needs and preferences.

Minimum Specifications

Any Windows computer you buy should meet these minimum specifications:

• 1.6 GHz Centrino or Duo Core processor
• 1 GB of memory
• 60 GB Hard-drive
• Windows XP Professional (older operating systems may be problematic and may not be supported)
• 802.11a/b/g compatible wireless card or built in wireless support (highly recommended)

Student Computer Purchasing Program

The University’s Division of Information Technology (DOIT) offers a convenient way to buy a computer that will have everything you need for mobile computing at Creighton. These computers are preloaded with essential software so you do not have to worry about installing software. In addition, you will benefit by having easy, efficient access to thorough training and technical support services. The advantages to buying your computer through the Student Computer Purchasing Program include:

• 4 year on-campus warranty (note: battery warranty is 1 yr)—repairs are done on campus by Division of Information Technology technicians
• 4 year accidental damage protection
• Creighton Software Suite
• Microsoft Windows
• Microsoft Office
• Symantec Antivirus
• Creighton Mobile Computing Kit
  • Creighton Logo'd Carrying Case (Backpack)
  • Creighton Logo'd 1 GB Flash Drive
  • 20' Ethernet Cable
  • Cable Lock
• Immediate JAYnet Connectivity

Click here for more information and to place your order.

Online Testing Requirements

You will have the option to write your Law School examinations either manually (hand-written) or word processed on your personal notebook computer using special online testing software. If you are interested in participating in online testing for the Fall 2008 semester please note carefully the following conditions:

• You must provide your own notebook computer that meets the minimum specifications stated above
• The testing software will not run on Macintosh computers
• You must have Windows XP or Windows Vista installed as your operating system

Macintosh (Apple) Computers

Macs are great machines, but Creighton is primarily a Windows based campus. Macintoshes are used everyday at Creighton but most campus resources are focused first on the Windows platform. If you own a Macintosh you can bring it to campus and perform most common tasks. If you are looking to purchase a computer, a Windows machine is the best fit for Law School students at this time.

General Expectations

Students bringing computers to campus are responsible for:

• reading manuals
• doing basic setup
• bringing system restoration CDs
• using only licensed software and having proof of license

The University provides anti-virus software for all computers using the Creighton network. Anti-virus software is preloaded on machines obtained from the Student Computer Purchasing Program and downloadable for all other users.

For more information on the University’s computing policies and services visit the Division of Information Technology’s webpage for students.