Device Requirements for UConn Students

Owned by Ashley Mattingly
Last updated: Mar 06, 2024 by A.J. Newman
6 min read

During your time at UConn, you will need a reliable and well-performing computer that enables you to fully access resources at the University and effectively participate in your courses, whether they are online or on-site. This article covers system requirements for computers and suggests additional equipment that may be useful.

If you have declared a major, you may consider checking with the department or school to see if it requires specific computer configurations. 

Computers

You will need a portable computer that can run the latest version of Windows or macOS. The current version of Windows is “Windows 11” and the current version of macOS is “macOS 14 Sonoma”.

It should also meet the minimum device requirements listed below.

How to use this information

When you are purchasing a new computer, the merchant or vendor will list the processor, memory, and RAM for that device. Compare the listing to our recommendations and ensure that the device you are purchasing meets the minimum specifications.

You can buy your device from the store or vendor of your choice. The UConn Bookstore sells computers that meet the recommended specifications.

Chromebooks do not meet the minimum requirements for student devices and will specifically have issues using Respondus Lockdown Browser and connecting to the campus wireless network.

Respondus Lockdown Browser is a custom browser that some instructors use for online exams.

Minimum specifications

Processor

Intel Core i5, AMD Ryzen 5, Apple M1 (see Windows 11 processor requirements below)

Memory (RAM)

8 GB or more (Mac), 16 GB (Windows)

Internal Storage

256 GB solid-state drive (SSD)

Additionally, your computer must have wireless networking (ability to connect to Wi-Fi) and an HD webcam and microphone.

Processor

Intel Core i7 or higher, AMD Ryzen 7 or higher, Apple M1 or newer

Memory (RAM)

16 GB or more (Mac and Windows).

Internal Storage

512 GB or more solid-state drive (SSD)

Additional aspects to consider

Modern Windows and macOS-based computers that meet the above listed requirements are able to utilize the resources at UConn designed for personal computing. You may choose to further customize your choice based on these additional criteria:

All general university computing resources are available on both macOS and Windows. This includes resources like Microsoft 365, Respondus LockDown Browser, and most class-specific apps like Adobe Creative Cloud, code editors, etc. You should pick the platform that you are more comfortable with and personally prefer.

What about Linux?

Linux distributions (Ubuntu, elementary OS, Mint, etc.) are not recommended for daily use for UConn students. They support most, but not all programs. For example, the Microsoft 365 suite and LockDown Browser are not available on Linux. Windows offers a feature called “Windows Subsystem for Linux” which allows terminal-based Linux operating systems to be run on a compatibility layer inside of Windows. Macs can run Linux in a virtual machine using 3rd-party software such as Parallels and VMware Fusion.

Laptops come in a range of sizes, from 11 to 17 inches measured diagonally. Because most students bring their laptops with them around campus, it is important to find a balance between power and portability. Larger laptops can be heavy or hard to fit into a backpack. Conversely, lighter laptops tend to be (but are not necessarily) less powerful than heavier computers. Find a balance that works for you so that you can carry your laptop comfortably and easily while avoiding the challenges of a slow computer.

A dedicated graphics card provides enhanced graphics processing power for video games, multimedia editing, and rendering. If you think that you will make use of a dedicated graphics card, consider finding a laptop that includes one. Keep in mind that laptops with dedicated graphics tend to be heavier, more expensive, and run hotter than those without them.

There are many manufacturers that sell computers that run Windows. Read reviews from reputable sources to determine which brand is appropriate for your usage. UConn uses Dell desktops and laptops for staff and faculty use, but students may use any brand they choose. The UConn Bookstore offers in-warranty repairs for Apple and Dell computers at the Storrs campus. They will provide repair services for other manufacturers but will not honor their warranties.

Accessories & peripherals

You may choose to complement your laptop with additional accessories that can help your computing experience at UConn.

What you may consider bringing

The Wepa student print service is available to all students, allowing you to print from several locations across all campuses. Students may keep personal printers in their dorm rooms, though most will probably find that it is not necessary. If you choose to do so, you will need a printer cable (USB) to connect your computer to your printer. Wireless printing is not supported on the UConn network.

What you should not bring

Loaner devices

Information Technology Services provides loaner iPads and Dell laptops for students. These loaners are intended for use when a student’s personal computer is broken and they are actively seeking a repair. iPads can be loaned for 2 weeks and laptops can be loaned for 1 week. During the loan period, the borrower is responsible for the care and security of the device until it is returned.

Public-use lab computers

All UConn academic campuses have publicly available Windows and Mac computers for student use. These computers use your UConn Microsoft 365 credentials (UConn email and NetID password) to log in and have software available on them for your classwork. The availability of these computers is dependent on current demand and the hours of operation of the labs. These should be considered supplemental to a personally owned computer and should not be your only means of accessing a computer. For a list of computer labs on UConn campuses, see Campus Labs.