Computer and Software

Recommended Hardware Configuration

Processor: Intel Core, AMD Athlon, AMD Phenom - or better
Memory: 2 GB RAM or more
100 GB hard drive or more
10/100 Fast Ethernet Network Card for resident students
Laptops: 802.11b/g wireless
Support for DirectX 9 or better graphics

Best upgrades? Whether you are buying a new computer or bringing an older one, here are the two upgrades that will serve you best:

Memory: We recommend 2GB as the bare minimum. Upgrading to 3, 4, or more GB will be noticeable when loading and running software, and multitasking. Most people won't notice much benefit by going beyond 4GB.
Wireless: Many laptops support only the 802.11a/b/g standards. The new technology is 802.11n, which will give you a faster wireless connection if supported. Holy Cross College will be implementing this new standard.

Recommended Operating Systems

Windows 7 or Windows Vista is recommended. Windows XP Professional still works on campus, but is no longer recommended due to support being discontinued by Microsoft and other software vendors.
Macintosh OSX version 10.3 or greater is required.

Recommended and Required Software

Antivirus software is required for all Windows computers. Our Network Access software supports most antivirus software, including free offerings from AVG, Avira, Avast, and others.
Microsoft Word 2007 or 2010 is recommended (Office 2010 is available for student use on computer lab workstations).
Microsoft Office 2010 (Professional or Academic) is recommended for all students taking Computer Applications courses.
Anti-spyware/adware software is recommended. Several easy-to-use and free programs are readily available on the internet, or bundled with your antivirus.

Other Considerations

Game Systems (Xbox, Playstation, etc.) will work on our network. No registration of the device is required. No support is available from IT staff for these products.
Wired and wireless routers, hubs, switches, airports, and similar devices are prohibited on campus.
Subwoofer speakers are prohibited in the residence halls.
Other portable wireless devices are allowed to use the wireless network on campus, including iPod, iPad, iPhone, Android devices, Blackberry, and more.

Computer and Software Discounts

Holy Cross College participates in the Dell University program. Through this program, HCC students, faculty, and staff can receive a 2-12% discount on new computers and computer equipment based on the warranty chosen and price of the system. Click the link below to browse items in their online store.

Dell University

Although Holy Cross College does not offer our own discounted software for purchase, Microsoft is making their Office 2010 suite available at a heavily discounted rate to all college and university students. Follow the link below to purchase this software at a substantial savings.