Warranty Information Overview

Introduction

The College of Engineering requires that incoming freshmen purchase a full 4-year warranty with accident protection for their laptops. This page lays out the reasoning behind the requirement. We will also include links to more detailed information regarding warranties that you can purchase in specific places, such as the Virginia Tech University Bookstore.

Reason for Warranty

A warranty allows you to pay a small extra amount to cover repair or replacement costs if something happens to your product within a specified time. This can save you money, especially if repair costs are high.

For incoming freshmen, a full 4-year warranty with Accidental Damage Protection is required because:

1. Longevity: Meeting the hardware and 4-year warranty requirements should help ensure that your laptop lasts through a 4-year engineering degree without needing an upgrade.
2. Durability: Student life is tough on laptops. High usage, travel, and potential accidents mean many students will face issues. The warranty covers costly repairs or replacements.
3. Continuity and Support: The warranty ensures you can continue coursework with minimal interruption; if your laptop is out for repair, the College of Engineering offers loaner laptops to students for free through the SWAT office in Torgersen Hall.

Warranty Questions

If I can afford to repair or replace my computer if it breaks, do I still need a warranty?

No, but few students can afford to replace or repair a computer immediately if it breaks. Repairs are often expensive. One of the most common issues is a damaged screen. Typical repairs for damaged screens can cost hundreds of dollars. 

Accidental Damage warranties add a lot to the cost of a computer. Why should I buy one?

The bookstore service history shows that more computers are serviced for accidental damage repairs than for regular warranty repairs. Student life is very hard on computers.  If you cannot afford to repair or replace your computer immediately if it breaks, you should purchase an accidental damage policy.