Computer Purchase Recommendations

While the University of Missouri School of Law does not require students to own a laptop computer, we strongly encourage students to purchase one. Our recommended configurations are intended for students purchasing a laptop with extended warranty repair plans and specifications to last throughout their law school career.

Computer Purchase Recommendations

There are 9 computer workstations available to law students in Hulston Hall Library and 4 ‘Smart Suites’ available to reserve with computers and digital displays. During peak times of the academic year, the computers and Smart Suites are used heavily, and access to a computer is not guaranteed. A student with a laptop and wireless has access to internet resources and productivity software virtually everywhere throughout our wireless network, and can also install Print Anywhere to allow their laptop to print to the computer lab printers.

Additional Information

Factors to keep in mind when shopping around for a laptop

The Law School provides basic support for Windows and Apple computers. Though Windows computers are more likely to be fully compatible with every system at MU, previous students have been satisfied with Apple computers as well. The Law School does not provide hardware support. Hardware support is available through Tiger Tech at the Student Center on campus. When purchasing a laptop, get price quotes (including warranty price and type) from a good cross-section of sources for informed choices. Prices change when new models are released; and new models are appearing all the time. Check all quoted prices again before ordering in case any of the prices have dropped. Also, cross-check for cheaper prices between different departments on the manufacturer’s website (e.g., Home, Small Business, etc.).

Under no circumstances should you attempt to use a laptop that runs an operating system other than Mac OS or Windows. For example, Chromebooks and Unix/Linux computers will have substantial incompatibilities with MU systems.

Purchasing: When you buy directly from a manufacturer, they will custom-build your laptop with the hardware and software you want. When you order a laptop, find out how long it will take to build and ship it. Some companies promise next-day delivery. If you don’t check, it can take anywhere from 4-6 weeks. Look for a 30-day money-back guarantee & 3-year warranty with on-site repairs. Dell and Macintosh computers, in most cases, can have warranty repairs performed on campus through TigerTech.  We highly discourage purchasing “off brand” systems regardless of the lower cost.

Exams on Computers: The Law School uses Extegrity’s Exam4 software for students that wish to take exams on computers. See the Exams on Computers webpage for restrictions and information.

Wireless Network: There are several different standards for wireless technology. The campus standard is 802.11n. Visit the Division of Information Technology Wireless Internet webpage for more information.

Software: All of the Law School computers available to students have Windows 10 and Office 2016 installed. To ensure maximum compatibility, make sure your productivity suite is Microsoft Office. All enrolled students are eligible for a free copy of MS Office 365, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, OneNote, and Outlook. It can be downloaded by logging into your university email account. Go to: Settings > Office 365 Settings > Software.

USB Memory Key: It is highly recommended that you save duplicate copies of all important documents. Purchase a USB Flash drive with at least 128 gigabytes of storage and save duplicate copies of your documents in case of laptop theft or hard drive failure.

If you have questions or need further information, contact Scott Greathouse: (573) 882-8302 or greathouses@missouri.edu.