Computing Services
Computing Services provides the resources for and support of computing
and technology-related activities to all members of the Law School
community. We are dedicated to meeting this responsibility by
proactively providing a high caliber of efficient and responsive
technical support. Simultaneously, we continually seek to improve the
Law School computing environment by researching and implementing
relevant new technologies and service initiatives.
We hope you find our site to be a reliable resource for current, helpful
information about the computing environment at the Law School. Thanks
for visiting!
Using Microsoft Windows at the Law School
Windows Vista
Law School Computing Services' current computer recommendations specify
Windows XP with Service Pack 3. However, our recommendation of Windows
XP does NOT mean to suggest that you *can't* or *shouldn't* use Windows
Vista. We've deliberately made this choice since we know Windows XP to
be stable and well-suited for Law School students to use in their
studies. Additionally, in the event you have computer troubles, Law
School Computing Services has a great deal of experience supporting
Windows XP.
If you do choose to use Windows Vista, note that we do not recommend one
version of it over another. If you're looking to buy a new computer and
have a choice of Vista versions, our advice is simply to buy what you
actually need and can afford. In general, law students primarily use
their laptops for word processing, internet/email access, and
increasingly, to view/listen to class recordings. If you're buying a new
computer and can't decide whether or not to go with Vista or Windows XP,
purchase a system that is "Vista-ready," meaning the hardware is
powerful enough to run Vista if you wanted to upgrade to it in the future.
Regarding Vista's compatibility with services you will encounter while
at the Law School:
- Provided your laptop is equipped with the appropriate hardware,
laptops running Windows Vista can access the Law School's wireless
network, as well as other wireless networks throughout the University.
See more information about wireless services at the UW.
Windows XP
If you are using Windows XP, be sure that it has been updated to Service
Pack 3, as it represents a significant upgrade to the base version of
Windows XP. You can check your version of Windows XP by right-clicking
My Computer, selecting Properties, and checking the version information
in the General tab.
If you need to install SP3, note that doing so may affect your use of
certain Windows XP features, internet-dependent programs, or websites.
Please use the links below to find information on how these commonly
used applications are affected by Windows XP Service Pack 3:
Computer Support and Security Summary
Computing Services has prepared a convenient summary of computing
security issues and recommendations for the Law School community. This
information was originally presented at the FLS introduction on September 8, 2008.
Microsoft Software Purchasing for Students
The UW has established a relationship with Microsoft and eAcademy,
a third-party software fulfillment company, through which students can
purchase select Microsoft software at educational discounts. Products
are purchased online with a credit card and shipped; certain products
are also available for purchase through eAcademy at the University
Bookstore Technology Center. Students that purchase software through the
eAcademy program will receive a CD only (no manuals or box) and a
license which allows you to use the software on a single computer.