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Minimum Hardware Standards

The Technology Support Center recommends the replacement of campus microcomputers using a four- to five-year life-cycle approach. To provide a uniform method for evaluating the suitability of an existing computer on campus, the following table has been devised:


Minimum Standards for Windows computers

    Processor
    Memory
    Hard Drive
    Desktop Networking
    Laptop Networking  
    Operating System
 Intel(R) Core(TM) i5
8GB RAM
250GB storage capacity 1
Integrated 100/1000 Ethernet Port
Wireless 802.11g or newer
Windows 10 (preferred) / Windows 7 2


Minimum Standards for Mac computers

    Processor
    Memory
    Hard Drive
    Desktop Networking
    Laptop Networking  
    Operating System
 Intel(R) Core(TM) i5
8GB RAM
250GB storage capacity 1
Integrated 100/1000 Ethernet Port
Wireless 802.11g or newer
10.13 (High Sierra, preferred) / 10.12 (Sierra) / 10.11 (El Capitan) 3

 

Any computer that falls below the minimum recommendations set forth in the above tables or are older than six year should not be considered a suitable candidate for the following practices:
  • Hardware Upgrade
  • Machine Transfer or "Re-purposing"

Notes:
  1. Hard drive size is ultimately contingent upon application/data size and usage requirements.
  2. Windows 7 will end extended support on January 14, 2020.
  3. Apple supports current OS + two previous versions.  This is subject to change at Apple’s discretion. Operating systems not supported should be upgraded or removed from the network.
  4. Apple hardware that is out of warranty will have limited repair options due to lack of availability of parts.
  5. Computer monitor lifespans can often exceed that of the computer itself.  In some cases, it may be prudent to retain a monitor for a few years longer to get additional value from that investment.