Computing Resources for Students

Computing Resources for Students

The Department of Computer Science (CS) does not require its students to own a computer system. This is true for non-CS students enrolled in CS classes, CS undergraduate majors and minors, and CS graduate students. CS operates three computer laboratories for use by students enrolled in CS classes requiring the use of a computer. The university also operates computer laboratories for student use.

Laboratory Descriptions:

• CS Computer Labs
• Non-CS Campus Computer Labs

Advantages to owning a computer system:

• Convenience.
• Other colleges and academic departments may require it. Please check with the other colleges and departments.
• Students may wish to install personal software. University-owned computer systems are provided for academic work only, not personal use. Student-owned computer systems connected to the campus network are also subject to limitations. Please see the University of Tennessee, Knoxville Acceptable Use Practices (AUP).
• Advanced CS students may wish to experiment with various operating systems such as Windows XP/Vista, Linux, BSD, etc. Using a free Unix or Unix-like operating system such as Linux can help students improve their programming, scripting, and system administration skills.

Recommendations:

For recommendations on topics such as hardware specifications and operating systems, see Recommendations for Personal Computers for Computer Science Students.

Places to buy computer systems:

• Some major vendors are Apple, Compaq, Dell, Gateway, HP, and IBM.
• The University of Tennessee University Center Computer Store

Software Options:

Many software vendors provide significant discounts to college students.  Don't purchase software from commercial vendors without first checking for academic prices.  See The University of Tennessee University Center Computer Store and the OIT for available products.

Anti virus software should be installed and running at all times.  Norton AntiVirus is freely available to UT students. Click here for more information.

Additional Information:

For additional help with CS-related topics, such as questions about using the lab computers or compiling programs, see CS Help.

For information on Internet connectivity in the dormitories, see VolResNet.

For additional general computer help and help with UT's non-CS computers and networks, see OIT Help.

| back to previous page |

Quick Links/ Related Info

• Office of Information Technology (OIT)
• UT Computer Store
• Wireless Networking at UT