Suggested Computer Configurations for Students
When coming to campus, we want you to be able to have reliable access to all University services. Provided are recommended computer configurations for accessing resources at the University when purchasing a new system, as well as recommended configurations for bringing a machine you already have to campus.
Purchasing a New Computer
When purchasing a new computer, there are a number of options to consider:
- Your price range
- Do you want a laptop or desktop system?
- Are you in the market for an Apple or Windows-based computer?
Depending on your answers to the questions above, we have suggestions for new computers as well as minimum configuration suggestions.
Laptop or Desktop?
When deciding between purchasing a desktop or a laptop, a few things to consider are:
| Laptop | Desktop | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | More Expensive | Less Expensive |
| Portable? | Yes | No |
| Expansion | Difficult but Possible | Easy |
| Gaming/Graphics | Superior Video and Audio |
Apple or Windows?
Most Departments are platform independent. Contact your department advisor for your specific area of study.
Generally,
- Apple - Art, Music and Journalism
- Windows - Business, Law and Medicine
Suggestions for New Computers
| Windows Computer | Apple Computer | |
|---|---|---|
| Operating System | Windows 7 | Mac OS 10.7 Lion |
| Memory | 4 GB RAM | |
| Processor Speed | Intel Core i-series or equivalent | |
| Hard Drive | 320 GB or larger | |
| CD/DVD Drives | DVD +/- RW Dual Layer Burner | Super Drive |
| Wireless (Laptop) | Any card that supports 802.11 g/n protocols and WPA2 Enterprise |
Apple Airport |
| Ethernet | 10/100/1000 (gigabit) | |
| Monitor (Desktop) | 19" Monitor or larger | |
| Screen Size (Laptop) | 14" (screen size can impact cost and weight) | |
| Warranty | 3 year service contract | |
Bringing a Computer to Campus
There are some hardware options that are recommended for every computer being brought to campus. These include:
- Ethernet cable (on campus) - A standard 10/100/1000 PCI ethernet card is encouraged for the dorms to allow access to the high speed Internet access, ResNet.
- Hard drive space - This is where you will save your documents and other information on your computer. Hard drive space can be at a premium on some older computers, so you will want to be sure you have an adequate amount of free space for storing documents and files and for installing new programs. Hard drive storage space can also be external such as a USB key or external hard drive
Recommended Minimum Configuration for Computers
- Operating System: Windows XP
- Pentium 4 Processor
- 1 GB RAM
- 10 GB free disk space
- CD-ROM drive
- Ethernet adapter
- Monitor
- Sound card and speakers optional
Windows
- Operating System: 10.4
- Intel Processor
- 1 GB RAM
- 10 GB free disk space
- CD-ROM drive
- Monitor
Apple
In addition, Information Technology Services requires all those using the University's network to have the most recent critical updates for your computer's operating system. The best way to ensure the latest updates are installed on a computer you bring to campus is to turn on automatic software updates. See http://its.uiowa.edu/support/article/1418 for more information.