They are used to run instructional software, access course materials, access HWS library catalogues, obtain updated curricular information and advising resources, access information on campus events and activities, word processing, electronic mail, and access the World Wide Web. Most of these uses require not only a computer, but access to the network. The campus Ethernet network provides all students with high-speed network connections in their dormitory rooms, the library, study carrels, laboratories, and an increasing number of classrooms. All students receive a network username and password as soon as they arrive on campus. Having a computer is a significant convenience, especially toward the end of terms when demands upon computer labs are high.
All student residences offer full Internet access.
Having a computer also helps develop computer skills. But having a computer is not absolutely necessary. There are two microcomputer laboratories in Gulick Hall, one in Williams Hall, and one in the Warren Hunting Smith Library. All but one serve as multimedia classrooms during the day and become open labs evenings and weekends. There are a total of 116 Pentium multimedia PCs, many with 17-inch color monitors, all configured in a networked environment and supporting Windows 95 and related software.