Minimum and Recommended Computer Configurations

This article provides general minimum and recommended computer configurations for students, employees, and other members of the FAU community. Additional information for student-owned and FAU-owned computers is provided in the sections below.
Important: These are general recommendations. Some colleges, academic programs, departments, or specialized applications may require different or higher hardware, software, or operating system requirements.

General Computer Recommendations

Computers should meet or exceed the specifications below for general academic and University use.

Supportability: Computers that do not meet these recommendations may experience performance or compatibility problems, and OIT's ability to fully support those devices may be limited.

Windows Computers

Windows minimum and recommended computer requirements
Component Recommended Requirement
Processor AMD Ryzen 3000 series or newer, or Intel i3/i5/i7/i9 10000 series or newer.
Operating System Windows 11.
Storage 256 GB SSD minimum. 1 TB NVMe SSD is recommended. Non-SSD and hybrid drives are not recommended.
Memory 8 GB RAM minimum. 16 GB RAM or higher is recommended.
Windows 11 Compatibility Hardware must support Windows 11 requirements, including TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot capability.
Networking Wi-Fi capability compatible with FAU's secure wireless networks. Students, faculty, and staff should use eduroam as the preferred FAU wireless network.
Audio Audio output.
Display Minimum resolution of 1920 x 1080. For desktop computers or external monitors, a 24-inch or larger display is recommended. Resolution of 2560 x 1440 or higher is recommended.
Storage note: Solid-state drives are recommended because they provide better performance and reliability than non-SSD or hybrid drives.

Apple Computers

Apple minimum and recommended computer requirements
Component Recommended Requirement
Processor Apple M1 chip or newer.
Operating System A currently supported version of macOS. View Apple's MacOS support article.
Storage 256 GB SSD minimum. Additional storage may be needed for specialized applications or coursework.
Memory 8 GB RAM minimum. Additional memory may be beneficial when using specialized or resource-intensive applications.
Networking Wi-Fi capability compatible with FAU's secure wireless networks. Students, faculty, and staff should use eduroam as the preferred FAU wireless network.

Information for Students

Students purchasing or using a personal computer should select a device that meets or exceeds the general recommendations listed above and is compatible with the software required for their coursework.

Before purchasing a computer: Some colleges, programs, or degree tracks may require specific hardware, software, or operating systems. Students should check with their college or academic department before purchasing a device.
Mac users: Some academic programs may require Windows-only software. Students should check with their college or department before purchasing a Mac if their coursework requires specialized software.

Devices Not Recommended as a Primary Academic Computer

The following devices may be useful for basic tasks, but they are not recommended as a student's primary academic computer unless the student's college or department confirms that the device meets program requirements.

  • Chromebooks and Pixelbooks: Not recommended due to compatibility limitations with some learning tools and academic software.
  • Tablets and iPads: Not recommended as a primary computer unless the student's academic program confirms that the device meets course requirements.
  • Devices with 4 GB RAM or less: May perform poorly with modern web browsers, video meetings, and academic software.
  • Devices with very limited storage: Devices with 64 GB or 128 GB of storage may not provide enough space for operating system updates, applications, and coursework.
  • Devices running unsupported operating systems: Unsupported systems may no longer receive security updates and may not work with current learning tools or academic software.
Program-specific requirements: Requirements provided by a student's college, academic department, or degree program should take precedence over the general recommendations in this article.

Information for Employees

Employees purchasing or using FAU-owned computers should follow their department's purchasing process and any applicable FAU IT standards.

Purchasing a new computer: Employees who need assistance selecting or obtaining an FAU-owned computer, laptop, monitor, or printer can submit a computer equipment quote request.

Computer and Device Support Services

FAU provides computer and device support to colleges and University units across FAU campuses. Available support includes:

  • Setting up and configuring new or existing computers and related peripheral equipment.
  • Installing or providing assistance with FAU-supported operating systems and software.
  • Assisting with network connectivity and access.
  • Providing assistance with desktops, laptops, tablets, smartphones, monitors, and other supported computer equipment.
  • Troubleshooting software and hardware-related issues.
  • Evaluating computer equipment that may require repair or replacement.
  • Assisting with disconnecting and reconnecting computer equipment during office moves.
Office moves: OIT does not physically move computer equipment. OIT can assist with disconnecting equipment before a move and reconnecting equipment after it has been moved.

For general computer, laptop, tablet, smartphone, or peripheral assistance, visit Computer, Laptop, Tablet & Smartphone Support.

For assistance obtaining or installing FAU-supported software, use Order or Request Assistance with FAU Software.

For computer equipment that may require repair or replacement, submit a computer equipment issue request.

Still Need Help?

Students: For requirements specific to your major, degree program, or coursework, contact your college or academic department.

Technical Support: For assistance with a computer or device, visit Computer, Laptop, Tablet & Smartphone Support or contact the Help Desk at 561-297-3999.

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