University of South Carolina - Computers

Quick Stats

College Prowler Take

Students at USC rely heavily on computers both in and out of the classroom. Computers are required for writing papers, doing research on the Internet, creating projects, and checking homework assignments and grades online through Blackboard. Students also use USC’s Visual Information Processing (VIP) system online to register for classes, pay their tuition and sign up for housing. The computer labs on campus provide ample resources for students; however, many students find it more convenient to have their own computer to enjoy its 24-hour availability, download music, watch online videos and television shows, and avoid a trek across campus. If you don’t bring your own computer, the Thomas Cooper Library has a limited number of laptops it rents out to students for a day.

The Internet connection is much better than what many students are used to. There is a high-speed Ethernet connection in every dorm and apartment room, and students also have the option of setting up a wireless connection with Computer Services. The network occasionally experiences problems, but these are generally few and far between. Computer Services also provides in-room and over-the-phone assistance with your computer in case you have problems or questions. Whether you decide to bring your own computer or use the University facilities, you will find the technological resources easily accessible and of high quality.

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Students Speak Out

SCKD says: University of South Carolina 2014 Communication and Journalism

The network is pretty good.... The network is pretty good. Wireless isn't available everywhere, but the wired network is reliable. The computer lab in the library is usually big enough to accommodate everyone, but the labs where classes are held are open at strange hours and are usually unavailable in the middle of the day. Students should definitely bring their own computers, as it is the easiest way to get everything done. 12345 Computers: March 18, 2009 Report

SCKM says: University of South Carolina 2016 Business

Computer labs are crowded as the... Computer labs are crowded as the night goes on, but right around lunchtime, they are relatively open. There is both a wired and wireless network, both of which have blazing speed. Students should definitely bring their own computers---more than 97 percent do when they first come down to school. I cannot imagine being in my dormitory without a computer. You use it for everything in college. 12345 Computers: March 02, 2009 Report

SCHJ says: University of South Carolina 2013 History

There are computer labs scattered... There are computer labs scattered around campus, and lots of students use them for printing, but watch out because you can get hacked if you leave your stuff up or don't log out of the computer all the way. Also, the Columbia Hall computer lab is sketchy because a lot of non-USC students or guys from Benedict come in to use the computers, and sometimes bums go in there to sleep. 12345 Computers: February 20, 2009 Report

Anonymous says:

It isn’t exactly necessary for a... It isn’t exactly necessary for a student to bring their own computer to USC. However, because of convenience, if it is within one’s means, I would highly recommend it. USC has a great network and plenty of computer labs. 12345 Computers Report

Anonymous says:

There’s a huge computer lab at the... There’s a huge computer lab at the campus library, which is rarely ever completely full, unless it’s at exam time and everyone is rushing to do their papers. You may want to bring your own PC just for convenience purposes. 12345 Computers Report

Facts

Did You Know?

The University offers free antivirus software downloads to students and faculty, and Computer Services offers free software training classes for students.

Long distance and voice mail services are also available to students through Computer Services by visiting www.csd.sc.edu.

The student technology center will help diagnose and fix any problems with students’ computers.

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