<p>Caveat: I work for [NSIT[/url</a>] and used to work for [url=<a href=“http://rescom.uchicago.edu%5DRescom%5B/url”>http://rescom.uchicago.edu]Rescom[/url</a>].</p>
<p>Short answer: Buy an Apple.
Long answer: You’ll have no trouble using any semi-recent computer on campus. The University makes no requirements about what software one must use unless you’re on Windows, in which case you have to run a University copy of ZoneAlarm Personal Firewall which is preconfigured to filter certain things. Having worked for Rescom, the people who fix computers in dorms, I’ll say that 100% of the serious computer problems (i.e., they required a reformat) were with Windows machines. Although Apples cost more money they really are worth it, unless there’s some piece of Windows-only software you must absolutely have. Barring that, get an Apple.</p>
<p>As for discounts, you get one both from Dell and from Apple, as far as I know. Check out the [url=<a href=“http://ccs.uchicago.edu%5DCampus”>http://ccs.uchicago.edu]Campus</a> Computer Store](<a href=“http://nsit.uchicago.edu%5DNSIT%5B/url”>http://nsit.uchicago.edu) for more details. I’m a graduating fourth-year and just bought myself a MacBook Pro to replace my non-Apple desktop. It rocks.</p>