Student Device Requirements

All essential university computing resources are accessible on both macOS and Windows operating systems. These resources encompass tools such as Microsoft 365, Respondus LockDown Browser, as well as class-specific applications like Adobe Creative Cloud, code editors, and more. It is recommended to select the platform that aligns with your comfort and personal preference.

What about Linux?

Linux distributions like Ubuntu, elementary OS, and Mint are not advisable for daily use by UConn students. While they do support most programs, some key ones like the Microsoft 365 suite and LockDown Browser are not compatible with Linux. Windows provides a solution called “Windows Subsystem for Linux”, which enables terminal-based Linux operating systems to run within Windows. Alternatively, Mac users can run Linux on a virtual machine using third-party software like Parallels and VMware Fusion.

Laptops are available in various sizes, typically ranging from 11 to 17 inches when measured diagonally. For students who frequently transport their laptops across campus, striking a balance between performance and portability is crucial. Larger laptops may be cumbersome or challenging to fit into a standard backpack. On the other hand, lighter laptops are generally more portable, although they may not offer the same level of power as heavier models. It is essential to identify a suitable compromise that suits your needs. Most students choose a laptop with a 13-14 inch screen.

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. Most students do not need a computer with a dedicated graphics card.

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 staff and faculty use Dell laptops, but students may use any brand of their choice. 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.

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 find that is not necessary. If you choose to bring one, you will need a printer cable (USB) to connect your computer to your printer. Wireless/networked printing is not supported on the UConn network.

Earphone/microphone headsets have better audio and microphones than some computers. They can enhance your experience when participating in synchronous online courses and video conferencing.

Home entertainment equipment is generally supported in university housing. Cable television service is not provided in dorms. For live TV, students are encouraged to use the “smart” features of their television to stream from an online live TV service. Beyond television, game consoles and other home entertainment equipment is permitted as long as they comply with the policies of Residential Life.

If you plan on connecting your television or console to the UConn wireless network, you may need to register it beforehand. This is because most smart televisions do not support the authentication method used with the UCONN-SECURE network. To learn more about how to register your device, you can navigate here.

When a lot of people are using the wireless network simultaneously, you may experience slower connection speeds or issues maintaining a stable connection. Most university housing has an Ethernet port, which provides a faster and more stable connection for devices that support it. It is recommended that smart televisions and game consoles connect to the UConn network using Ethernet.

Personal wireless access points (Wi-Fi routers) are not allowed in campus buildings, including university housing. Personal access points cause interference with UConn’s wireless network. Wi-Fi is provided across all campus buildings and in certain outdoor spaces. Additionally, Ethernet jacks are accessible, with at least one jack provided in most dorm rooms. To use these jacks, an Ethernet cable is required.

You do not need to buy Microsoft 365 before coming to UConn. Students can download Microsoft 365 apps for use on up to five personal devices for free through their Microsoft 365 subscription. This subscription is available for the duration of your academic career at UConn.

It is not recommended to use 3rd-party anti-malware/anti-virus software on your personal device. These programs include McAfee, AVG, and Norton. Through smart browsing habits and the built-in features of macOS and Windows, most students do not need to use 3rd-party software.