Do I need a computer?
Yes, it is our expectation that you will arrive on campus with a laptop computer capable of running at minimum Microsoft Office 2000 and Internet Explorer 6.0 for PC-compatibles, and Mac OS X 10.2 or higher for Macs.
I don't have a Notebook computer. What kind should I buy?
We strongly encourage you to purchase one of the pre-configured laptops from Dell . These computers come with an excellent 3 year onsite warranty that covers all repairs, including accidental breakage. We stock spare parts for these laptops and can better assist you should your laptop need repair. More information on participating in the Yale Law School Student Laptop Program will be posted on June 1, 2006.
If you choose to purchase a different brand buy one with a three-year warranty from a major manufacturer such as Apple, HP, Lenovo, or Toshiba. When comparing notebook computers, ask about the turn-around time for warranty repairs. Many students find it very difficult to be without a computer for a week or more while waiting for a repair to be completed. You may also wish to inquire about what the warranty covers. Most standard laptop warranties exclude the LCD display and a broken display can be quite costly to repair (up to $1,000.00).
What software do I need?
We only support Windows XP Professional and Mac OS X (10.2 or higher) operating systems. If you buy a new computer make sure it has one of these Operating Systems installed.
The Law School has licensing for Microsoft Office and Symantec Antivirus for PC and Mac. These licensing agreements allow you to run these programs while you are a student at Yale.
You can install these programs once you arrive on campus. Dell Laptops purchased through the YLS Student Laptop Program have this software pre-installed at the factory.
I already have a laptop computer. Can I bring it?
We strongly encourage all students to purchase their laptop from Dell through the YLS Student Laptop Program. We recommend a minimum configuration of Windows XP, a 1 GHz Pentium M processor (or Centrino), and 1 GB of RAM. Your computer should be equipped with a modem for access to email and the Internet from home and a wired Ethernet adapter for accessing the Law School network while on campus. In addition to wired Ethernet adapters companies such as Orinoco and 3com/Cisco produce wireless Ethernet cards allow you to have access to the Internet. Wireless networking is now available throughout the Law School.
Do I need a printer?
Yes, you should have an ink jet printer or personal laser printer suitable for printing letters and short papers. The Law School computer cluster has high-speed laser printers for printing longer documents.
Can I access the network from my dorm room?
Yes, the dorm rooms have wired Ethernet connections.
I have an Apple Computer. Can I use it?
The Law School IT department can not fully support Apple computers. If you bring an Apple computer you should make sure it has installed at least Mac OS X 10.2 (or higher) and that you have an active AppleCare warranty that will cover problems with the hardware during your time at Yale. Contact the vendor from which you purchased your Mac for information on purchasing a warranty or extending your existing warranty.
When can I set up my email account?
You will receive information on your email and network access account from Yale University by mail in June of 2006. Please do not discard or lose this information as it can only be provided to you again in person at the Law School.
What will my email address be?
Yale University has a standard email-addressing scheme. For most students it is firstname.lastname@yale.edu. If you have a common first name and last name your address may include your middle initial. Before giving your address out, verify your email address after June 15, 2006 by visiting the Yale online directory at www.yale.edu/phonebook.
Can I access the Internet and email from home?
Yes. All Law Students have accounts on the Yale University PPP server. This allows you to use a Web browser or check email from home with a computer equipped with a modem through a telephone line.
Is Broadband Internet available in the New Haven area?
Yes, Broadband Internet is available in the New Haven area. Broadband Internet connections are currently provided only through third-party cable and telecommunications companies. Yale Law School IT Services does not provide technical support for obtaining or using these connections. Yale University maintains information on local options.