This page is to familiarize new students with the technology environment at Shepherd. As a new student, you need to know what networks are available and where, what requirements we ask you to have for your computer and what you can do before arriving on-campus to help you have a smooth start.
While 黑料吃瓜网does not require students to own a computer, we strongly encourage it. The decision to purchase a Windows or Apple computer should be made based on your major. Linux based computers are popular, but they require a greater knowledge than Windows PCs or Macs. Contact the department chair from your area of study to determine which type is right for you.
黑料吃瓜网does not operate a computer store and we cannot repair computers. We strongly recommend you research vendors and purchase a quality machine backed by good service. Vendors such as Dell, Apple, and HP have solid reputations. Search for education discounts from the vendor and take advantage of them if offered. Consider extended warranties.
Our suggestions below are for students looking to purchase a computer that will last four years.
Windows
| Hardware Item | Laptop |
| Processor 鈥淐PU鈥� | Minimum: Intel i5 (12th generation or newer / Core Ultra 5 / AMD Ryzen 5 (7000 series or newer |
| Graphics Card 鈥淕PU鈥� | Optional |
| Memory 鈥淩AM鈥� | 8 GB with 16 GB preferred |
| SSD or Hard Drive | 250 GB, 512 GB preferred |
| Operating System | Windows 11 |
| Network Interface | Optional. Gigabit Ethernet if equipped |
| Monitor | 14 inch or larger |
| Wireless Card | WiFi 5/6/6e/7 compliant |
Optional |
|
| Warranty | 4 years Recommended |
| Anti-Virus | See recommendation below** |
Apple
| Hardware Item | MacBook Air |
| Processor 鈥淐PU鈥� | Apple M1 or newer |
| Memory 鈥淩AM鈥� | 8 GB with 16 GB preferred |
| SSD or Hard Drive | 250 GB, 512 GB preferred |
| Operating System | MacOS 13 / Ventura or higher |
| Monitor | 13 inch or larger |
Optional |
|
| Warranty | 4 year Recommended |
* A dedicated graphics card is not required for most uses. Please check with your academic department to see if you need a dedicated GPU for your program.
** 黑料吃瓜网recommends using the built-in security functions in the Apple and Windows Operating Systems. Third-party antivirus programs are not necessary.
黑料吃瓜网maintains a wired Ethernet network for connecting your computer and other devices. The cable must be a Category 5e or 6 cable. All residence halls have at least one Ethernet port for each person living in that room, suite or apartment. The suites and apartments have more than one port per person. There are also some Ethernet ports available for use in academic and common buildings such as the Library.
黑料吃瓜网also maintains a Wi-Fi network in every building on-campus including all of the residence halls, academic and common buildings. If you find an area in a campus building which does not have Wi-Fi coverage, please contact the IT Services Desk so we are aware of it. Our contact information is below.
There is a link at the bottom of this page to guide you through the process of connecting your devices to Shepherd’s network. If you require assistance, you may contact the IT Services desk at 304-876-5457 or via email at itworkorder@shepherd.edu
To ensure the network is secure and reliable, we maintain strict standards for operating system versions and virus protection:
- Apples must run Mac OS 13/Ventura or higher
- Windows computers should run Windows 11. Windows 10 is nearing end-of-support.
- Windows computers must have all patches and updates installed. We recommend Automatic Updates be enabled. Visit to check for patches.
- The following Windows versions are not supported: 95/98/2000/ME/XP/Vista/7/8.0
- Linux is allowed, but limited support is available.
Here is the link to our Wi-Fi Setup Instructions