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Campus Software Standards:
Certain software packages are used in many colleges and departments across campus. While other packages can provide the same functions, there are significant convenience advantages to using one of the standard packages. Before making any software purchases check with your College and Department about their computer requirements.
- Windows XP or Windows Vista, including the latest updates
- Internet Explorer 6.0 or greater, Netscape 7.0, or Mozilla 1.6, or a higher version of any of these browsers, depending on the operating system
- Sun Java 1.5 (Java 1.6 is NOT supported in E-Learning)
- CISCO VPN Client provided by UF (use Beta client, found on the UF Software CD, for Windows Vista)
- McAfee Antivirus 8.5i (set to auto update) provided by UF
- Microsoft Office 2003 or 2007 (include 2003 compatability patch)
- E-mail software -- Microsoft Outlook, Thunderbird, Windows Mail or other IMAP email software may be useful for reading your GatorLink mailbox, but WebMail is also available
- Networking utilities -- alternate e-mail clients, clients for ftp, chat, news and other internet services, file readers and other utilities (available at no cost on the UF Software CD; see below)
Some colleges require the use of Windows XP Professional or Microsoft Windows Vista. It is highly recommended that students download and install the Virtual Private Networking (VPN) client. VPN allows a student’s computer connected from off campus to behave as if it were physically on the UF network. This permits access to some services, such as library services, that would otherwise not be available. Also available to students is a collection of other software tools and utilities including virus protection and removal. Installing virus protection software is a must. The software can be downloaded from the web or a UF Software CD-ROM can be purchased at the UF Bookstore for a nominal fee.
About laptops
Students may find that laptop computer mobility offers significant advantages. Some colleges require laptops in their upper division and graduate programs. Wireless connectivity and wired connections are available in many campus buildings, computer labs, courtyards, and other spaces on campus to provide flexible locations for computing.
Advice on acquiring a computer
Computer technology continues to change rapidly, and prices for computers continue to drop. Depending on the student's individual situation and curricular choices, it may make sense to lease, or acquire a used computer initially followed by a new computer when entering the upper division or graduate programs. It is reasonable to expect that any computer will need upgrading over the course of four or more years. Make sure that the computer’s memory is expandable.