Macs

Windows is the current standard as a platform, but alternatives, such as Macs, are widely used and accepted on campus and in Manning Hall. We encourage you to choose the operating system with which you are most comfortable.  Please see the links at the left for answers to common Mac questions.

Support. There is more campus support for Windows users; UNC services, access to resources, and support experience are Windows-centric. However, CCI laptops now include Macs. The SILS Help Desk staff are well-versed in different operating systems, including Macs, and though we can't solve all problems, we are glad to do our best to help you.

Windows-only software. Some SILS classes use software that only runs on a PC, so having a non-Windows system means you will have to seek workarounds or other systems to complete assignments. The ITS Virtual Lab service offers many Windows application to Mac users through a simple browser interface.  

Alternatively, Mac users can install Windows virtualization software (such as Virtual Box, Bootcamp, Parallels or VMWare) in order to run Windows-only programs on their computers. Using virtualization software, students can install a Windows operating system on their Mac and then install Windows applications on top of that.  It is expected that students will have virtualization software installed BEFORE it is needed in classes. Please note that the process of installing virtualization software and applications can take several hours. The SILS DreamSpark (formerly MSDN-AA) program is available for downloading Microsoft operating systems and applications.