Laptops and Software
Recommended Laptop Configuration
Information Technology recommends the following hardware configuration for campus use. Chromebooks are not recommended.
Recommended Windows Laptop Configuration
- Processor: Intel® Core™ Ultra 5 or Higher
- Operating System: Windows 11
- Memory: 16 GB or more
- Hard Drive: 256 GB or higher Solid State Drive or Flash Storage
- Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi 5 (802.11 ac) or Wi-Fi 6 (802.11 ax)
- Battery: Up to 10 hours of battery life
- Webcam (built-in or USB) USB Headset with microphone (for improved audio experience)
Recommended MAC Laptop Configuration
- Processor: M2 Chip or better
- Operating System: macOS 14+ (Sonoma or higher)
- Memory: 16 GB or more
- Hard Drive: 256 GB or higher Solid-State Drive or Flash Storage
- Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi 5 (802.11 ac) or Wi-Fi 6 (802.11 ax)
- Battery: Up to 10 hours of battery life
- Webcam (built-in or USB) USB Headset with microphone (for improved audio experience)
Student, Faculty & Staff Computer Discounts
Students, faculty, and staff have access to special education pricing on computers and accessories through several of our recommended hardware vendors. These programs offer exclusive discounts, educational bundles, and special financing options to help you purchase technology for academic and personal use.
Below are links and instructions for accessing these savings.
HP Education Store
The HP Education Store offers students, parents, and educators up to 40% off laptops, gaming PCs, and accessories, along with free shipping and easy returns.
How to access the discount:
- Visit: https://www.hp.com/us-en/shop/cv/hp-education
- Click “Sign Up and Save.”
- Register using a valid academic email address to unlock education pricing.
Program Highlights
- Year-round education discounts
- Special bundles designed for students
- Financing options available (up to 36 months)
Purchase Limits (per calendar year):
- 2 PCs
- 10 accessories
- 2 printers
- 12 supplies
Dell Student & Staff Store
Students and staff can shop exclusive education pricing and special sales events through Dell’s Student Store.
Shop anytime:
www.Dell.com/Student
How to unlock your savings:
- Sign in or create a Dell account at www.Dell.com/Student
- Select the Dell Rewards option when creating your account
- Verify your student or staff status using your organization email
- Your exclusive 10% discount will automatically apply at checkout
No codes or coupons required.
Current Promotion:
Dell’s Innovation That Wins Sale is running March 3 – March 17, featuring limited-time deals on laptops, performance systems, and accessories. Students and staff receive an additional 10% off personal purchases through Dell’s Member Purchase Program.
Apple Education Store
Students, parents of students, faculty, and staff can receive special education pricing on Apple devices.
Shop the Apple Education Store:
https://www.apple.com/us/shop/goto/home
Education savings are available on:
- Mac computers
- iPad and select accessories
- Displays
- AppleCare+ for Mac, iPad, and Displays
How it works:
Simply shop through the Education Store. The discounted pricing will automatically appear when items are added to your cart and during checkout.
Lenovo Education Discount Program
Lenovo offers a special education discount program for:
• College and university students
• Faculty and staff
• Incoming students with an acceptance letter
Shop the Lenovo Student Store:
https://www.lenovo.com/us/en/d/deals/student
How it works:
- Verify your eligibility through ID.me
- Once verified, the discount is automatically applied when you shop
Typical Benefits
- Around 5% additional discount on eligible products
- Discounts may stack with existing Lenovo sales
- Verification typically lasts about one year before renewal is required
Need Help Choosing a Computer?
For guidance on recommended computer specifications for academic use, please refer to the university’s technology recommendations page or contact the IT department.
Wireless
We've made it easy to get connected from anywhere on campus. Enjoy the convenience and educational benefits of using wireless laptops in and outside of the classroom in addition to our public laboratory facilities.