Academic Computing Services

Windows Computer Requirements and Recommendations

You will need an up-to-date computer to make full use of UCSD ResNet's connection. Following are the system requirements and recommendations for Windows computers for the 2008-2009 school year.

Minimum Windows Computer Requirements 2008-2009

Below are the minimum required specifications for any Windows computer to be used on the network. It is not recommended to use a computer on campus under these specifications.

• Pentium 3 or compatible processor
• 256 MB RAM (512 recommended)
• 4 GB hard drive with at least 15% free space
• 15" monitor
• Windows 2000 with Service Pack 4 or newer, fully updated
• 10/100 Ethernet adapter
• Current firewall program
• Current anti-virus software package
• Current Internet web browser

Recommended Computer Specifications 2008-2009

Recommendations for students who intend to keep a computer for four years without a major upgrade:

The UCSD Bookstore works closely with ResNet to find great deals for students on computers and network equipment.

Windows XP Service Pack 2

What is Service Pack 2?

Microsoft Windows XP Service Pack 2 is the latest collection of critical operating system updates and security patches for your computer. It includes new security features such as the Windows Firewall, Security Center, and Internet Explorer pop-up blocker. A complete list of new features is available on their website.

Why should I install it?

If you are running Windows XP on your computer, Service Pack 2 is required to be installed. The ResNet Acceptable Use Policy requires that you keep your operating system updated. Service Pack 2 enhances your computer's security by patching a number of security vulnerabilities in the operating system. There are also numerous improvements to the operating system itself, including wireless support, Internet Explorer download monitoring and privacy features. Microsoft has published a list of reasons why you should install Service Pack 2 on the Microsoft website.

What should I do before I install Service Pack 2?

1. Make sure your anti-virus software is updated, and scan and clean your computer of any viruses.
2. Use Ad-Aware (make sure it is updated) and Microsoft Windows Defender (Beta) to clean your computer of any spyware.
3. Make sure all the software on your computer has the latest updates.
4. Check your computer manufacturer's website for information about Service Pack 2.
5. Make sure your computer hardware has all the latest drivers. For more information on drivers, check here.

Contact ResNet if you have questions or need help.

Where can I get Service Pack 2?

You can download it from Microsoft Windows Update, or you can come by the ResNet office during our phone support hours to pick up a CD. Bring a Photo ID (student ID, driver's license) to check out a copy. Also, many of the RAs and HAs have copies, so feel free to ask them!

Troubleshooting

• I get an error message during the installation about a product key.
• I get an error message during the installation about cryptographic services.
• I installed Service Pack 2 and now my Internet doesn't work.
• I installed Service Pack 2 and now my computer won't start up.
• My machine runs a lot slower than it did before I installed Service Pack 2.
• Why does Internet Explorer block my popups now? It didn't before.

I get an error message about a product key during installation.

This usually means that you are using an unlicensed copy of Windows XP. Did you purchase your copy of Windows XP? Visit Microsoft's How-To-Tell to learn more information about how you can tell whether or not your copy of XP is legal.

I get an error message about Cryptographic Service during installation.

This problem can occur if the Cryptographic Service has been disabled or if the "c:\windows\system\catroot2" folder is corrupt. To correct this issue, click on "Start", then "Run", then type in "services.msc" and press enter. When the "Services" window pops up, scroll down the list until you find "Cryptographic Services." Right-click on it and go to "Properties". Make sure that the start up type is set to "Automatic", and ensure that the service has started. Contact ResNet if you have questions or need help.

I installed Service Pack 2 and I can't get to the Internet.

Do you have third-party firewall software such as Norton Internet Security, McAfee Personal Firewall, or Zone Labs Zone Alarm? These programs can become corrupt during the installation of Service Pack 2 and break your Internet connection. To fix this, uninstall the firewall software and reinstall it.

If this doesn't work, make sure your network adapter is enabled. To do this, click on "Start", then "Control Panel" (located under the "Settings" folder if you are using the Classic Start Menu), and then on "Network Connections". If you do not see Network Connections, select "Switch to Classic View" in the left pane of the window. Right-click on "Local Area Connection" (this may be followed with a number), and select "Enable". If you do not see this option, your network connection is already enabled. Contact ResNet at any point if you have questions or need help.

I installed Service Pack 2 and now my computer will not start.

When this happens, you must repair your Windows installation using the Windows XP disk that shipped with your computer. This occurs most often in systems with multiple spyware and malware infections. This could also indicate incompatible hardware. Obtain the latest drivers and firmware for your hardware prior to the Service Pack 2 installation in this case. Contact ResNet at any point if you have questions or need help.

My machine runs much slower than it did before I installed Service Pack 2.

Try defragmenting your hard drive. Service Pack 2 replaces many core operating system files, so their placement on the hard drive may cause problems. To defragment your hard drive, click "Start", then "All Programs", "Accessories", "System Tools", then "Disk Defragmenter". Contact ResNet at any point if you have questions or need help.

Why does Internet Explorer block my pop-ups now?

The latest revision of Microsoft's Internet Explorer contains built-in pop-up blocking capabilities. If you don't like this feature, you can turn it off. In Internet Explorer, select "Tools", then "Internet Options". Select the "Connections" tab, and uncheck "Block Pop-ups." Contact ResNet at any point if you have questions or need help.

Ethernet Card Recommendations

The following Ethernet cards are recommended by ACT (formerly Network Operations). Recommendations are based on proven reliability and ease of use.

Recommended Ethernet Adapters

Desktop

Laptop

Wireless Networking