Information Technology Services
and PC Requirements

Computer Resources
Franklin Pierce University provides students access to computing resources, including equipment and access to networks, as an integral part of the educational environment. The University computer network at the Rindge campus provides network and Internet access to all members of the Franklin Pierce community. Students use it for e-mail, word processing, coursework, professional development, and recreational activities.

All student computers running a Windows operating system are required to register on the network and install AVG anti-virus software. Internet access is available to all registered computers on campus. The campus has four computer labs: three Windows XP Pro labs, and a Macintosh lab with Apple iMac G5s. Availability for general use is posted at each lab.

Computer Requirements
If you are purchasing a new computer or hard drive, you may take advantage of the Educational Discount through GovConnection. The page displays the latest products recommended for our students, and the pricing reflects our discount.

Microsoft Software for Full-Time Day Students
PC users with Windows XP Home may upgrade to Windows XP Pro for the nominal fee of $10 (cash or check made out to Franklin Pierce University). You will receive your own CD and license key. The University has taken care of the licensing fee. For more information call IT at x1110.

Microsoft Office 2003 Standard is available to full-time day students at the nominal fee of $25 (cash or check made out to Franklin Pierce University). You will receive your own CD and license key. The college has taken care of the licensing fee. Office Standard includes Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Office tools. (Does not include Microsoft Access) Available at the IT Department.
bullet If you already own a PC and plan on bringing it to campus, we recommend the following minimum requirements:


Processor: Pentium 4, 1.6 GHz or better
RAM: 1024 MB
Network card: 10/100/1000
Operating System: XP Professional with the latest service pack and critical updates
Anti-Virus software is provided by the college
Anti-Spyware software is highly recommended
Bring your operating system or restoration CD
Cable: 25' Category 5 network cable with RJ-45 connectors
A security cable to lock your computer is recommended

bullet If you are purchasing a new PC to bring to campus, we recommend the following:

Processor: Intel Dual Core 2.0 GHz or better
RAM: 1 GB
Network card: 10/100/1000
Operating System: XP Professional
Bring your operating system or restoration CD
Anti-Virus software is provided by the college
Anti-Spyware software is highly recommended
Cable: 25' Category 5 network cable with RJ-45 connectors
A security cable to lock your computer is recommended

bullet If you are purchasing a new laptop to bring to campus, we recommend the following:

Processor: 1.66GHz Intel Intel Core 2 Duo
RAM: 1GB
Network card: Built-in 10/100
Operating System: XP Professional
Bring your operating system or restoration CD
Screen: 15.4 inches
Weight: 6.6 lbs
Anti-Virus software is provided by the college
Anti-Spyware software is highly recommended
Cable: 25' Category 5 network cable with RJ-45 connectors
A security cable to lock your computer is recommended

bullet If you already own an Apple Computer and plan on bringing it to campus, we recommend the following minimum requirements:

Model: Macbook
Processor: G4
RAM: 512MB
Operating System: 9 or better
Bring your packet of system restore CDs
Cable: 25' Category 5 network cable with RJ-45 connectors
Anti-virus software is recommended
A security cable to lock your computer is recommended

bullet If you are purchasing a new Apple Computer to bring to campus, we recommend the following:

Model: MacBook, or Mac mini
Processor: 1.6 or better
RAM: 1GB or better
Operating System: 10
Bring your packet of system restore CDs.
Cable: 25' Category 5 network cable with RJ-45 connectors
Anti-virus software is recommended
A security cable to lock your computer is recommended

Please note that modems will not work. You must have a network card for Internet access.  AOL, MSN, or Prodigy accounts are not necessary to access the Internet.

Windows XP is the current university standard. However, if you have Windows Vista we will help you connect it to the network.

Linksys or any other type of router will not be supported. (Wireless routers are not permitted)

For more information, contact the Information Technology Help Desk at 603.899.1110.