New Student Guide

That depends on you. Whether laptop or desktop, here are the suggested minimum specifications:

We also recommend that you check with your school for any additional specifications that may be required for your discipline.

Desktop vs. laptop is largely a matter of personal preference. Consider the following questions: Will you need the portability of a laptop, or do you prefer the cost advantage of purchasing a desktop?  Laptops are portable and can ease the trip between residence hall room, library, classroom and home over break. Desktop computers tend to be less expensive than laptops and allow for increased expansion and upgrades. Regardless of what you choose, you will need to take some common-sense precautions to protect your investment. Laptop locks can be purchased from most electronics stores. Whether you have a desktop or a laptop, you should ALWAYS lock your door when you leave your room, and never walk away from your computer in a public place. Ultimately, the physical security of your computer and the security of your files and documents are your responsibility. 

Is there wireless in residence hall rooms?

GW offers two types of wireless network to GW students. 

• GWireless is a secure wireless network that uses an authentication method that works with computers, Apple iOS mobile devices and a variety of Android devices. GW community members may log into GWireless using their GW NetIDs (the GW NetID is the part of a GW email address before the “@” symbol) and the passwords that correspond to their NetIDs.
• GW is also pleased to offer GW students the ability to connect certain models of gaming consoles and streaming devices to the GWConnect network. The GWConnect wireless network currently supports Roku, Apple TV, Playstation 4, XBox One, Amazon Fire TV Stick, Amazon Alexa Device, and Nintendo Switch. Use Martha Chat to connect your device(s). Access GW's knowledge base or GWConnect network webpage for more information.
• GW also offers GWired, a high speed wired network connection, to students living in the residence hall. The Walk-In Support Centers can provide equipment to connect devices with an ethernet port to our wired dorm network. Visit the Walk-In Support Centers webpage for contact information and office hours.

Is there network storage space for my documents?

GW offers GW Box, Google Drive and Microsoft OneDrive for file storage. Visit the Backup, Storage & Document Management webpage for more information.

Yes, the University does not provide telephone service in the dorms. A cellular telephone would be needed for basic communication. There are some publicly available phones located around campus.  Note that we offer WebEx for students which offers internet or IP-based collaboration and connectivity. 

Yes. GWConnect wireless network currently supports Roku, Apple TV, Playstation 4, XBox One, Amazon Fire TV Stick, Amazon Alexa Device, and Nintendo Switch. Have a device that's not on the list? We're open to suggestions for investigating support for additional GWPlay devices!  Complete the GWConnect Suggestion Form to request support for additional devices. 

Students are not permitted to set up routers, gateways or access points in their residence hall room. Routers can disrupt network connectivity for other users. Students who set up routers in the residence halls will be subject to judicial action per the GWired Code of Conduct and may lose their Internet connection for the year. 

As a student of GW, you have access to Colonial Printing with printing locations throughout the University. View all available locations on the Where to Print webage.  Printing is "pay-for-print", and GWorld Colonial Cash can be used for printing and copying services across GW's multiple campuses. Many students also choose to purchase a printer to use in their residence hall rooms. Please choose a wired printer for easy connectivity. Printers cannot connect to our Wireless Network for security reasons. For your convenience, the GW Bookstore sells printers as well as other computer accessories.

GW Network users agree to adhere to the GWired Code of Conduct as well as the Code of Conduct for Users of Computing Systems and Services at the George Washington University.  Violation of either policy may result in judicial action and possible loss of your connection. 

Surge protector

Laptop lock