Updated May 2024

All incoming students must own a computer that meets the minimum requirements set out below. The purpose of this is to ensure you are able to participate effectively in all technology aspects while enrolled at the School of Dentistry.

►►► IMPORTANT:

*Windows 10 & 11 Home DO NOT meet the ULSD minimum requirements as encryption cannot be enabled and therefore MUST be upgraded to Windows 10 or 11 Pro at a minimum.
**Pro, Education or Enterprise versions of Windows 10, 11 meet the ULSD requirements. If you have Windows 10 or 11 Home versions, please see below section on Software for upgrading from Home to Education versions of Windows 10/11.
***Win 10 will be End of Life October 2025. We strongly suggest upgrading to Win 11 prior to joining the university to avoid interruptions in your studies.

CAUTION: Please use extreme care when upgrading any operating system, ensuring that all software used is compatible with any upgrade. If unsure, check with the Dental Informatics department.

Disk Encryption

You must be able to encrypt your drive using Bitlocker (Microsoft) or FileVault (macOS). Bitlocker is only available on Win 10 Pro, Education and Enterprise versions. (See Software section below for upgrading Win 10 home).

Encryption instructions for both operating systems can be found in the Data Security Packet. 

Restrictions

Chromebooks, Netbooks, iPads or Android tablets do not meet ULSD’s requirements. Same goes for MS Surfaces running Windows RT, 10 Home S Mode or any mobile operating system. As a result these cannot be used.

Software

• Browser: Current compatible browsers are Chrome, Edge, Safari and Firefox. These must be patched and updated to the latest versions on a regular basis, for security measures.
• Blackboard & Lockdown Browser: Ensure any IOS upgrades are checked with the compatibility with Blackboard & Lockdown Browser.
• ExamSoft: This software used for testing in most courses. Be aware of updating this software in line with your O/S; some versions of Examsoft released are incompatible with certain versions of Windows and Mac O/Ss. Check with Connie Rough in Academic Affairs first before proceeding. 
• Microsoft Windows 10/11 Education: The University does offer an upgrade from Windows 10/11 home to Windows 10/11 Education edition. Go to https://louisville.edu/its/enterprise/purchasing-assistance and click on "Purchase" underneath the ITECH XPRESS image.
• Microsoft 365: Enrolled students are permitted to download the MS Office suite on 5 devices for free. Go to http://louisville.edu/go365/students.

Security

Students using PCs are required to use an antivirus software. If your windows device does not already have Windows Defender installed, you can purchase a subscription from the following link: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/microsoft-defender-for-individuals?rtc=1

Alternatively, you may use another antivirus program that is subscription based (free antivirus programs do not meet ULSD requirements).

Students using Mac computers must also use some form of antivirus. Mac computers are widely thought to be virus free. This is incorrect. Macs are becoming more and more susceptible to same range of viruses that we see in PCs today.

Support

Dental Informatics is unable to provide hardware or software support to student-owned devices. Each student is responsible for the upkeep, management, and repair of their own computer. Therefore, extended warranties, at the time of computer purchase are highly and strongly recommended to provide a means for quick repair or replacement.

FAQs

Can I get financial aid for purchasing my laptop/tablet? How can I request this?

When your student aid is awarded, the cost for a laptop/tablet will be included in your initial financial aid package (as this cost is included in your cost of attendance). For more information on this, please contact the School of Dentistry Financial Aid Coordinator at dentfa@louisville.edu.

Should I purchase a PC or Mac computer?

This is personal preference. Either device will work for the programs offered here. You will find a healthy mix of PCs and Macs within our student population.

Will I have wireless access everywhere on campus?

Yes, the School of Dentistry has full coverage so access will not be an issue.

Where should I purchase my device?

It is suggested that you shop around for the best deals, but cheapest does not always equate to the best deal.

You can view options at the University's Campus store by navigating to https://www.bkstr.com/uoflstore/shop/technology/computers-and-tablets

Where can I charge my device?

Charge your laptop at home, free outlets around the school and there are available outlets at each desk in the lecture rooms with a couple of exceptions.

How can I stay safe and avoid viruses and other intrusions?

There are many ways you can stay protected. IT security is not just IT's job; its everyone's responsibility. Some ways in which you can help are as follows. 

• It is strongly recommended that you purchase a good Antivirus program for your laptop or Mac book and keep it updated.
• Keep your Operating System updated with the latest security patches.
• Back up your data, as often as possible.
• Think before you click, avoid websites with pirated material.
• Never open any links or attachments from within email sources unknown to you or suspicious looking emails no matter the source.
• Always hover over a link (especially one with a URL shortener) to see where the link is really taking you.
• Never allow others to download anything on your device or use any removable media that has not been checked for viruses.
• Always keep your ULINK password secure, never sharing or sending it via messenger or mail. UofL will never request your password in any way.

For a full listing and details of the University's Policies on Information Security please follow this link. https://louisville.edu/security/policies/