Hardware Recommendations
Listed below are both the requirements and recommended specifications (specs) for devices. This should act as a guide for new and current students to assess their current technological needs and determine if an upgrade to current equipment is warranted. The left hand column lists the base requirements of a device in order to ensure security and proper connectivity to the campus networks. Devices which do not meet the requirements may cause security risks for the user and the university as well as a hinderance to the students productivity.
Minimum Required Computer Specifications
Minimum:
Operating Systems:
Windows 10
MacOS 10.15 Catalina
Chrome OS will support most functionality in Blackboard, but support for Respondus LockDown Browser and Monitor is still in beta. Click here for more information.
Laptop Specs:
Use a computer 5 years old or newer
8GB of RAM
1.1GHz processor with 4 Logical cores
Hard Disk Drive (HDD) or Solid State Drive (SSD) with 128 GB
Internet Speed:
Minimum of 2.5Mbps Up and 1.8Mbps Down, assuming it is not being shared. If multiple users are on the same network, a larger bandwidth will be necessary.
Mobile Device Specs:
iOS 12 or newer
Android 10 or newer
Screen Readers:
Use Firefox® and Jaws on a Windows® system
Use Safari® and Voice on a Mac system
Recommended Computer Specifications
Recommended:
Operating Systems:
Windows 10 (Updated to the newest version) or Windows 11
Mac OS 12 Monterey
Chrome OS is not recommended by the IT department as it has limited functionality and a history of issues communicating with other devices and applications.
Laptop Specs:
2 years old or newer
12GB+ of RAM
2GHz+ processor with 4+ Physical cores,
Solid State Drive (SSD) with 256 GB of storage or more
Internet Speed:
Recommended internet speed for HD Video conferencing is 3.8Mbps Up and 3.0Mbps Down. However, speeds higher than this will reduce latency and stuttering
Mobile Device Specs:
iOS 16 or newer
Android 13 or newer
Most Online, hybrid, and dual mode courses require a webcam and microphone in order to participate in both recorded and live video conferencing. While most laptops have these integrated, external microphones and cameras can be purchased to fulfill these requirements.
Equipment that meets the above recommendations:
Disclaimer: The below products are not official recommendations to purchase, but are examples meant to guide users.
(15.6-inch)
(13-inch)
(13.3-inch)
(14-inch)