Getting Started with your WakeWare Laptop

Keep your original receipt for proof of purchase. If you had your laptop shipped, the packing slip attached to your box is considered proof of purchase. If you purchased in store, you will receive a receipt upon purchase. You will also have a receipt in your email if you purchase online.

Never leave your laptop unattended! We strongly encourage you to write your serial number and keep it in a safe place, as well as add your laptop to your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance. Because you own your laptop, the university is not responsible for replacing stolen laptops.

Software such as Microsoft Office, and other academic software, is included in tuition. Visit software@WFU to download academic software. You may still install your own software on a WakeWare computer. If you have an M1 Apple, and need to run specific windows-based applications for a class, visit the Amazon WorkSpaces service page for more information on how to request a WorkSpace.

Make sure you have antivirus software to keep your device safe and to protect it from threats. Mac users can download our recommended antivirus software, Avast, from software@WFU. Windows users with Windows 10 and 11 have Windows Security on by default, which provides the latest antivirus protection.

Have a plan to backup your data, because data loss can happen to anyone. Students have access to cloud storage solutions.

Read and understand the Ethical Use Policy, which outlines the responsible and ethical use of the computing resources and computing systems of Wake Forest University.

All students have access to printers located in the ZSR Library for a small fee. While you are welcome to have your own printer, we recommend to wait and see if you need it. We do not allow wireless printers on our campus network, so have a USB cable for wired connection to your laptop if you do bring a personal printer.