The following laptop specifications are the recommended minimum requirements for both Windows compatible and Apple laptops. The IS Team recommends meeting (or preferably exceeding) these requirements to have the functionality and tools needed for each student’s success.
Note: Chromebooks are not recommended. They are great for leisure web surfing and video conferencing but should not be purchased in the place of a laptop or desktop.
Minimum Recommended Laptop Specifications for PC (Microsoft Windows)
- Intel. Core TM i5 Processor or higher
- 8GB DDR3 SDRAM or higher
- HDMI port for external monitor/projector
- 256GB+ SSD (solid state hard drive)
- DVDÅ}RW (internal or external)
- 10/100/1000 Network interface
- Wireless 802.11 ac dual band
- USB 2.0 ports/3.0 ports
- OS: Windows 10 (64-bit)
Minimum Recommended Laptop Specification for Mac OS
- 8GB RAM or higher
- OS: Sierra (10.12) or higher
- 256GB+ SSD (solid state hard drive)
- HDMI port for external monitor/projector or adapter
– Mini DisplayPort or USB-C to HDMI adapter - Wireless 802.11 ac dual band
- USB ports: at least 2 available (or USB-C to USB adapter)
Software
- Microsoft Office 365 is provided FREE of charge for students.
- Virus protection software MUST be installed and up to date for each laptop that connects to our wireless network.
– Windows PCs come with Windows Defender preinstalled. Uninstall trial versions of anti-virus software to ensure it is active.
– Malwarebytes offers FREE and paid versions of their protection software @ www.malwarebytes.com/mwb-download
