University Technology
Student Computer Recommendations
The following recommendations are for students only. Recommendations for employees can be found under Faculty/Staff Resources.
University Technology recommends the following minimum requirements for student-owned computers brought to campus. The uTech Support Center has certified Apple and Dell technicians on staff that can repair or assist with all Dell and Apple general repair needs .
Already Own a Computer?
We recommend that all computers* (laptops/notebooks and desktop computers) have the following minimum specifications:
- CPU: Intel Core i3 or higher
- RAM: 8 GB (Mac and PC)
- Hard Drive: 256 GB
- Optical Drive: CD-ROM or DVD
- Operating System: Windows 10 or Mac OS X 10.13
- Video Card: OnBoard (Integrated)
- Network Card: Gigabit Ethernet network card/adaptor
- *Wireless Card (only if using a laptop/notebook computer): Dual Band 802.11n
Looking to Purchase a New Computer?
Discounted computers and hardware can be purchased online:
- Dell online store (negotiated discounts for both WIU students and employees)
- Apple online store (educational institution discount for both WIU students and employees)
We recommend that all new computers (laptops/notebooks and desktop computers) have the following minimum specifications:
- CPU: Intel Core i5 or higher
- RAM: 12 GB (Mac and PC)
- Hard Drive: 256 GB M2 or SSD (Minimum)
- Optical Drive: Generally these are no longer part of systems..
- Operating System: Windows 11 or Mac OS X 12
- Video Card: Intel/AMD/nVidia (dedicated/discreet for laptops)
- Network Card: Gigabit ethernet network card/adaptor
- Wireless Card (only if using a laptop/notebook computer): Dual Band 802.11ac
**If you are taking or plan to take fully-online classes, we do not recommend Chromebooks and Windows 10S.
Software Recommendations
- Microsoft Office 2019 or Office 365 (Office 365 is available free to all active students)
- Adobe Acrobat Reader ( https://get.adobe.com/reader/ )
- Java uninstalled or disabled
- Antivirus software (Free Antivirus Solutions)
Software Recommendations
- Microsoft Office 2016 or Office 365 (Office 365 is available free to all active students)
- Adobe Acrobat Reader
- Java uninstalled or disabled
- Antivirus software (Free Antivirus Solutions)
Broadcasting & Journalism Students
The Broadcasting & Journalism Department has specific computer requirements for all incoming students. Details on the computer requirements can be located on the Department of Broadcasting & Journalism website.
Other Academic Department Requirements
Consult your specific academic department for discipline specific hardware and software needs.
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