Student Computer Technology Recommendation

Body

Description

Information Technology Services recommends the following minimum computer hardware. Some programs on campus may require more substantial equipment, such as those in the computer science or engineering fields. If you have any questions regarding these recommendations, please contact the IT Service Desk

Note: The Service Desk does not support personal devices beyond connecting to the WiFi.

Instructions

Recommended Student Computer:

Laptop for portability

Operating Systems:
- Windows 11 64bit (Windows 10 will reach the end of support on October 14, 2025)
- macOS 14 or newer. (Older versions may be serviceable. )
- ChromeOS (Chromebooks) may work for some programs but they are limited in what programs they can install and will be unable to install required programs for certain majors such as JMP, AutoCad, etc. We suggest using our Computer Labs for these programs if you are interested.

Hardware Specifics (Click to open)

Specific Recommendations
These are general recommendations for New computer that should work for most students. If you already have a laptop with similar specifications it should last you through your 4 year college experience.

CPU
2 years old or newer

Intel® Core i5 or 7 Series 13th gen or newer
AMD Ryzen™ 5 Gen 3 or newer
Apple M2/M3

Memory
Ram: 16GB+ Recommended
Hard Drive: 20+ GB of available hard drive space(You may choose to use more)
Online Storage: 10GB Free Google Storage included with your ISU Gmail.

Internet
- Wireless: TigerNet is available to all students living on campus
- Accessories:-Wireless networking adapter (for desktop computers if needed)
  - Note: It would be recommended to take exams on a stable connection
- Network: Only available in some dorms University Housing Network Options
Peripherals:
- Note: Laptops with built-in Web cameras/microphones are recommended. Purchasing an additional headset with a microphone may be needed.

External Web Camera (optional)
Headphones with microphone (optional)
External USB Mouse

Education Discount Programs:

ISU BNC Bookstore https://isu.bncollege.com/

Apple https://www.apple.com/us-edu/store

Dell http://www.dell.com/IdahoStateU

Microsoft https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/store/b/education

Office 365 is free to all students, faculty, staff: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/education/products/office

For additional technical requirements by specific school or college, please see below: