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Students, faculty, and staff considering a new personal computer purchase often contact IT for advice. While IT does not sell computers to users for personal use, we can offer basic ideas on what to consider when making your purchase. See vendors who offer educational discounts on hardware.
Knowing what you plan to spend on your initial purchase, as well as over the lifespan of your computer, will dictate many of your other decisions. You should try to buy a computer that will last you four years, but you may end up buying a new one after two. The saying "you get what you pay for" applies very strongly to computers. Purchasing a lower-end laptop will typically result in a shorter life span.
Information Technology provides recommendations for general use personal computers. Curriculums that use data intensive calculations or require enhanced graphics capabilities may recommend different specifications. Check with your department for guidance.
Configuration Recommendations
Following are the computer configurations we recommend for UWSP students. Check with the department within your major for additional curriculum-specific recommendations.
Recommended Configuration
- Intel i5 11th Gen / AMD Ryzen 5 4th Gen / Apple M2 series
- 16 GB RAM
- 1 TB solid state (SSD) hard drive or larger
- Web cam / mic / speakers
- Network: 10/100/1000 BASE-T Ethernet
- Wireless: 802.1x n/ac/ax (2.4/5.0/6.0 GHz)
- Laptop Security Cable Lock (highly recommended for Resident students)
- Windows 11 / macOS 14 or higher
Additional Recommendations
Accessories
When purchasing wireless accessories choose dual band technology (2.4 GHz and 5.0 GHz capable).
Cables
You may need to purchase accessories that are not included with a new computer purchase such as a DVI, HDMI or display port cable for your monitor, network cable, and surge protector.
Operating Systems
We support computers running Windows 11, and the latest three versions of macOS on campus. PCs should have all current patches and updates installed.
A new OS version is typically provided by Apple each year. UWSP Information Technology supports the latest three versions. See Apple Support's MacOS page for the most current MacOS.
Printers
Students do not need to bring a personal printer to school. Printing is included with student tuition and printers are available in the Residence Halls and academic buildings. Learn more about printing at UWSP.
Software
Microsoft Office 365 is available for personal installation.
Students can also sign in to Adobe Creative Cloud Express.
Warranty
Most retail computers have a 1 year warranty. We suggest that you upgrade the manufacturer's warranty to at least 3 years.
Laptop warranties generally do not cover screen damage, such as cracking. Check with the manufacturer to see if they offer accidental damage coverage in lieu of the standard warranty.
Wireless Routers
Routers are prohibited on the campus network (this includes the Residence Halls).
Contact the IT Service Desk for additional help!