Besides the hardware itself, the operating system software that's usually pre-installed on the computer is the second largest factor in its cost. It also determines what programs will run on the computer, and therefore, how easy it will be to use it in your environment.
Windows 7
Microsoft's newest operating system was released to the public on Oct 22, 2009, and offers numerous improvements over Vista, especially in the area of performance. LTS recommends that all new Windows-based computers either be purchased with Windows 7 64-bit, or be capable of running it. LTS will be upgrading all public site computers to the 64-bit version of Windows 7 after the end of the spring semester in 2010. The 64-bit architecture offers additional improvements in performance and memory access, but may be less compatible with legacy applications. The SNA staff is testing software installation scripts for LTS-supported software, and keeping a list of known issues. All members of the university community are urged to test software that they expect to run on public sites to determine full feature compatibility. Information on the availability of student media is available from WIRED. For more information, definitely check with your Computing Consultant.
Windows XP Professional
At Lehigh, Windows XP Pro is the most widely used operating system among the faculty and staff. Most office machines owned by the University are "imaged" with this operating system regardless of the one that may have come with it at the time of purchase. This allows you to save some money on the purchase price by simply selecting the cheapest one available. Before purchasing a machine, check with your Computing Consultant regarding your department's participation in the imaging program.
Windows Vista
Microsoft's previous operating system release was shipped with new computers for the last year or two, and in use by roughly 40% of students on campus. In general, Vista machines interact with campus systems such as the Campus Portal, email server, and the Internet just as well as XP machines, and run Microsoft Office programs with only slight variations in features and functionality, and somewhat improved security. For more information, check with your Computing Consultant.
Macintosh OS X
Quite a few Macs are in use at Lehigh, and all are supported, both in departments and dorms. The most common programs such as email, web browsing, word processing and spreadsheet software are fully compaitible, and WIRED login software is available for them as well. Since the operating system is fundamentally different, and runs a different collection of software, LTS has outlined some considerations in the Windows vs. Mac page.
For some Departments, and Engineeering and Buisness courses, Windows software is required, but there are many ways to run Windows on a Mac, if need be. WIRED's recommendations for doing so are at Running Windows on Macs. Check the WIRED homepage or Brad Price's Mac pages for more guidance and assistance.
Linux and other Unix flavors
In addition to Macs, there are also a growing number of Linux and other Unix-flavored machines in use on campus. Support for these systems is more limited, but those using them are largely self-supporting.