Written by Marie Puissant
While UW offers a plethora of computer labs and Internet access, the majority of students do bring their own computers, and suggest that others do as well. Students find convenience and safety in having a computer in their dorm room. This way, they can do their papers at their leisure, download music, and keep documents in a secure place. The dorms and private halls offer high-speed DSL in each room, along with small computer labs within the building. These smaller labs are nice if your computer is malfunctioning, or your printer runs out of ink and you're on a deadline. Be warned though-these smaller labs will often be crowded, and sometimes charge to print.
For those not able to bring their own computer, UW offers numerous labs spread all over campus. In order to meet the varying schedules of students, some open as early as six in the morning, while others stay open past midnight. All computer labs provide PC and Mac consoles so that students can use the programs they are most familiar and comfortable with. Furthermore, each lab is equipped with word-processing programs, Internet access, and research outlets. Along with these basic programs, the labs also provide printers, scanners, and copiers. For more specific computer hardware or software needs, check out the lab directory to find the right location.