For a web browser we recommend Netscape 4.0 or higher or Explorer 4.0 or higher. This means you must have an Ethernet network card installed and properly configured. Any provider will do as long as you have direct access to the World Wide Web and use a fully Java qualified web browser. The IT Service Center can recommend local ISPs. These specifications are minimal, and you'll get by with them.
More sophisticated systems are better.
If you have some extra money, buy more RAM for your computer. Claris Works is available in all computer labs on campus. In addition, Office97 is available in all Windows labs, and Office98 is available in most Macintosh labs. These programs offer the greatest common denominator in terms of sending documents across different platforms. Sometimes, specific courses will have specific recommendations about software.