Recommended Computer Specifications and Minimum Requirements for Technology

A computer that meets these specifications is expected to last 3-4 years, with appropriate operating system updates and malware/virus protection. 

• Recommendations
• Technology Discounts
• Support for Student Owned Computers
• Support for Smart Technology
• Bringing an Older Computer
• New Computer Recommendations
• Unsupported Technology

Recommendations

• Both Windows-based and Macintosh computers are compatible with the campus network and online resources.
• Chromebooks and tablets do not meet the minimum requirements and are not appropriate for college level for work. If you bring a Chromebook or tablet, we cannot guarantee it will work with our network or associated technologies.
• It is strongly recommended that students purchase laptops for mobility and ease of support.
• If any student would like a consultation on what hardware to purchase, please click here and select Computer Consultation Meeting and we will answer all the questions you have about selecting the right computer and peripherals for your college journey.

Technology Discounts

Cedar Crest College has purchasing arrangements with several vendors. You may purchase a computer at a small discount (5-8%) from these vendors by looking for the link under Related Articles in the right column of this page.

We do recommend that you still visit a store to “test drive” a computer before buying it. It’s important that you be comfortable working on it, as you’ll be spending a lot of time using it.  If you are looking for online pricing at our negotiated discounts on computers, click here for a list of approved vendors.

Additionally, a purchasing agreement has been made with JourneyEd ( http://www.journeyed.com/select/ ) for discounts on academic versions of a variety of software.

Support for Student Owned Computers

Information Technology provides limited support to students with connectivity issues in Residence Halls and to the wireless network on campus.

• If the problem is determined to be network related, our office will work to resolve the problem as swiftly as possible.
• If the problem is determined to be hardware related, you will be referred to the vendor from whom you purchased your computer. If your computer is no longer under warranty, our office will provide a list of local computer repair vendors.
• If the problem is related to software you purchased and installed on your computer, you will be referred to the software manufacturer.

Support for Smart Technology

Limited support for campus wireless connectivity and email configuration is available by appointment only for portable smart devices, such as iPads and phones.  All devices must be updated to the latest operating system patch to be supported.

Bringing an Older Computer

If bringing a computer you already own, it should not be more than two years old and at a minimum, have:

Windows Computers

• Windows 10 (not in S mode)
• Intel Core i3 Processor or better
• 8 GB Memory (RAM), 16 GB recommended
• 250 GB Hard Drive or higher
• 100/1000 Ethernet Wired Network card
  OR
• 802.11n Wireless Network card
• Web Cam and Microphone
• Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge browser installed (Firefox and Opera are unsupported browsers).

Macintosh Computers

• OS X 12 (Monterey) or higher
• Intel Core i5 Processor or better
• 8 GB Memory (RAM), 16 GB recommended
• 250 GB Hard Drive or higher
• 100/1000 Ethernet Wired Network card
  OR
• 802.11n Wireless Network card
• Web Cam and Microphone
• Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge browser installed (Safari, Opera, and Firefox are not supported browsers).