Connecting Personal Computers @ Lehigh
Worldwide, personal computers have become integral to the process of research and learning. On campus, Library & Technology Services(LTS) provides over 600 computers in labs across campus for student use. All students who bring personal computers to campus automatically have access to services provided by the STAR(Student Technology and Repair Services) Program. There are no costs for these services, the STAR Services Program is funded by Lehigh's technology fee, which is assessed of all full-time students and is used for the support and improvement of student computing services at Lehigh.
Benefits
Direct, High-speed Access to the Internet and Lehigh Network(LAN)
Our campus network backbone employs multiple links to the Internet and offers speeds that range from 80-160Gbps. With this high-speed, high-capacity network students can expect to experience performance that greatly exceeds home-based connections (DSL/Cable) on both wired and wireless devices.
Microsoft Office
The latest versions of the MS Office suite for Windows and Mac are available to all Lehigh students. The suite includes Word, Excel, Powerpoint and Access. Information on how to download and install MS Office will be sent to students by August 1.
Microsoft Software
Microsoft Azure Dev Tools for Teaching is a service that provides access to a variety of Microsoft software for learning, teaching and research purposes. This software includes all versions of Windows, Visual Studio and many other popular Microsoft applications. Information about registering for this service and how to access it will be sent to all students before classes begin.
File Storage Space
10 GB of backup-protected Lehigh LAN disk space (H: Drive)
Unlimited Lehigh Google Drive cloud storage space
1TB Microsoft OneDrive for Business cloud storage space
Secure Wireless Networking
Students have access to Lehigh's secure wireless network which covers most locations on campus completely, including residence halls.
Assistance with Computer Problems
Students can receive 1-on-1 assistance with computer problems from specially-trained Student Technology Consultants.
What Kind of Computer to Bring to Lehigh
Most recent survey data shows that almost every Lehigh student brings his or her own computer to campus. Make sure that the computer you will be bringing to campus meets that minimum requirements for use at Lehigh.
Existing Computers
These specifications are the bare minimum specifications for a computer you have already owned for some time that you are planning to bring with you to campus. These requirements ensure that a computer will be able to run all the necessary software used in typical coursework.
New Computer Purchase
For those who are purchasing a new computer to bring to Lehigh, it is a wise to make an investment in a computer that will last through your time at Lehigh. While there are some differences in the specifications for new computers that can have a significant impact on long-term performance, most computers on the market today should meet these specifications easily at a reasonable price and provide acceptable longevity. Since the computer you purchase will likely be used for much more than just school-related work, the general recommended approach is to buy the computer that you will enjoy using for personal use but also meets Lehigh's recommended specifications.
Note: Chromebooks are not recommended as a primary device for coursework. While a Chromebook can be used for some course-related activities, they lack key features that traditional Windows/Mac devices offer and which may be required for some courses..
Personal Printers
Printers are available for student use at both libraries and most public site computer labs around campus. However, there is a nominal cost per page for printing once a student has used up his/her yearly allowance. Many students find it extremely convenient to have their own printer(inkjet or laser) rather than relying exclusively on Lehigh printers. Typical coursework can involve printing out handouts, assignments and other course materials. Read more about public-site printing at Lehigh.
Minimum Computer Hardware Recommendations
Existing Computers
- Processor(CPU): 2.0GHz or higher
- Memory(RAM): 4GB or higher
- Hard Drive: 250GB or higher
New Computer Purchases
- Processor(CPU): 2.0GHz dual-core or higher
- Memory(RAM): 8GB or higher
- Hard Drive: 250GB or higher
Supported Operating Systems
(in order to get the most assistance from support staff)
Mac
- Mac OS 10.14 (Mojave)
- Mac OS 10.13 (High Sierra)
- Mac OS 10.12 (Sierra)
Windows
- Windows 10 (64-bit / 32-bit)
Important Information About Purchasing a New Computer
Warranty Recommendations
Making sure to buy the proper warranty coverage for your new computer is critical - and can often mean the difference between whether or not your computer can be serviced by Lehigh's hardware technicians on-campus. Generally, in order to qualify for warranty repair by Lehigh, the recommended brand computer must have been purchased directly from the manufacturer, either by phone or through the manufacturer’s Web site. For computers purchased from retail stores such as Staples, Best Buy, H.H.Gregg, Wal-Mart, etc., Lehigh typically cannot perform any type of in-warranty repair, because the warranties are provided by the store and not the manufacturer. In addition, most computer models sold in retail stores are consumer-line models which are not typically eligible for hardware repair support at Lehigh.
Most manufacturers offer extended warranty coverage as well as what is referred to as "accidental damage protection". For example, if you drop your computer off of your desk or spill liquid on the keyboard, these would be considered "accidental damage" as opposed to a part of the computer being simply "defective". Accidental damage protection is usually offered separately from the standard extended warranty coverage. In some rare cases, a store like Best Buy may offer their own accidental damage coverage if the manufacturer does not. In all cases, it is best to research your warranty options carefully before making your final purchase. Lehigh recommends purchasing an extended warranty(3-4 years) with on-site service. Avoid depot service warranties as this requires the computer to be sent out to the manufacturer as opposed to receiving service on-site.
Hardware Repair at Lehigh
Lehigh is an authorized repair center for the following brands/models: Dell, Lenovo(business class), and Apple computers. Lehigh recommends these brands/models as students who own these computers and encounter hardware problems can have the computers serviced on campus without the delay involved in contacting the manufacturer's technical support.
PC vs. Mac
If you are on the fence about purchasing either a PC or a Mac, we've listed some quick facts about both platforms that you may find helpful to making your ultimate decision.
Read more detailed information about computer recommendations, brands, models, and warranties
Important Things To Do/Know
Before Arriving On Campus
Before arriving there are several steps you can take to prepare your computer for use at Lehigh. These steps include installing the University-recommended antivirus software, securing the computer for Internet access and choosing a method for backing up important data. The steps are covered in detail in the document: "Preparing & Securing Your Computer for Use at Lehigh".
In addition students are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the main services offered by LTS - "12 Essential LTS Services Every Student Should Know".
Arriving On Campus
When students arrive on campus they should go to the LTS Information Fair. The Fair will be held in the Fairchild-Martindale Library on August 20th. At the Fair students will have an opportunity meet STARS and Library staff, learn about the services available and to get assistance connecting phones, tablets and laptops to our network.
During the School Year
If, during the school year, a student has a computer problem or question, assistance is available from the STARS Team. To obtain assistance a student simply needs to request help using the online request form on the STARS Web site, or visit the STARS Desk on the main floor of the EWFM Library.
Questions About STARS
Students and parents are encouraged to explore the STARS Web site for more information about the program. The Web site contains a First-year Student FAQ with answers to many of the typical questions that freshmen and parents have asked in the past. If you have specific questions please feel free to contact us directly.