Desktop and Software Standards for
Boise State University

Details

In accordance with University policies, the following recommended standards for desktop and laptop computers and software apply to all colleges, departments, and offices of Boise State University to promote the sharing of information throughout the institution. Exceptions to these standards can be appealed to the Executive Director of Information Technology as outlined in policy BSU 8030.

Fully supported hardware and software

Refers to desktops and applications that are supported by staff knowledgeable with the hardware or software, documentation is available, seminars may be offered, and consultation may be arranged.

Partially supported hardware and software

Refers to functioning desktops and applications that may have compatibility issues with University systems, or may be beyond the product's stated life cycle. A best effort will be given to support these desktops and applications.

Fully Supported Software

Current Fully Supported Software Windows XP & Vista Apple OS X
Office Productivity Suite Microsoft Office 2003 and 2007* Microsoft Office 2004 & 2008
E-Mail Novell GroupWise 7.x
Novell GroupWise Cross-Platform Client Version 7.x
Calendaring Novell GroupWise 7.x Novell GroupWise Cross-Platform Client Version 7.x
Web Browser Microsoft Internet Explorer 7
Mozilla Firefox 3.x		 Safari 3.x
Mozilla Firefox 3.x
Anti-Virus Symantec Anti-Virus 10.1.x Symantec Anti-Virus 10.1.x
Secure File Transfer FileZilla and Adobe Dreameaver FileZilla, Fugu and Adobe Dreamweaver

Software is fully supported only if is compatible with University administrative systems, and if the current version is within the manufacturer’s supported product life cycle.

* The PeopleSoft workstation client is only supported on Windows computers running Microsoft Office 2003.

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Desktop Standards

Windows XP and Windows Vista Enterprise are currently supported Microsoft operating systems.

Apple OS X 10.3 and above are the only supported operating systems on Apple Macintosh computers. Apple regularly releases several upgrades for OS X which address many stability and performance issues. Technical support staff may recommend upgrading to the current version, which may involve a license fee, as a first step to resolving known issues with earlier releases of OS X.

An Apple or Windows-based computer will be fully supported for 4 years after the purchase date. After 4 years the computer will be partially supported.

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Machine Standards

Machines used for administrative purposes must be able to operate within the University's network and run administrative systems using supported software.

Machines used for academic purposes must be able to operate within the University's network.

Computers purchased for all purposes should be enterprise models offered by contracted vendors. Desktops and laptops manufactured primarily for "home" or "small business" use may appear to cost less at first glance, but support, repair and upgrade costs may prove more substantial over the lifetime of the computer.

For assistance with computer purchases, please see information on the Help Desk's website.

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Mobile Computing Devices

Devices such as Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs), Smart Phones, and other mobile devices can be an appropriate choice for the on-the-go faculty member, administration and/or professional employee.  Mobile devices allow individuals to stay in contact with the office, organize daily tasks, and carry important information (such as contacts or documents) electronically. 

The University provides software at cost allowing real-time connectivity and synchronization between BlackBerry, Palm Treo, and other select mobile handheld devices with GroupWise calendar, e-mail and address book data.

For BlackBerry devices, a one-time $70 activation fee is required on top of the monthly voice and data charge for GroupWise synchronization. For other devices, NotifyLink is offered at an annual rate of $150.

For mobile devices that do not maintain a persistent Internet connection, OIT supports installation and configuration of HotSync and ActiveSync software for Palm and Pocket PC/Windows Mobile devices with GroupWise PDA Connect (free) or IntelliSync (at cost) software for GroupWise data synchronization.

For more information, please contact the Help Desk at 6-4357.

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Preferred Vendors

Boise State University is required by the State of Idaho to order computers from contracted vendors. See the OIT Help Desk's Computer Order site for a complete list of preferred and contracted vendors.

Minimum Recommended Windows Hardware

Minimum Recommended Apple Hardware

Get Help

For further assistance, please contact the OIT Help Desk by phone at 426-4357, via e-mail at helpdesk@boisestate.edu, or online at Help Desk Self Service.

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