General Specifications

Many computer resources are available for general use by the campus community. IT staff will be available to incoming students during FOCUS and over the summer to answer questions regarding computer hardware/software and assist you in making a more informed computer purchase.

Appropriate computer selection is ultimately based on a number of variables including budget, usage, and major of study. Systems meeting the minimum suggested requirements will be able to connect; however, other specifications may be more efficient.

Main System Components

• Duo Core Intel or AMD processor, 2.0GHz or faster
• 2GB RAM
• 120GB hard drive space
• Windows OS: Vista or above
• Mac OS: 10.5 (Leopard) or above
• 100mbps network card or faster, with RJ-45 cable
• 802.11 n wireless card or above

Office Productivity Suite Software

Microsoft Office is available on all public computer lab workstations. If you choose to purchase Office for your personal computer it should be version 2007 or above (2010 preferred) for Windows; 2008 or 2011 for Mac. Microsoft and Adobe products are available for purchase to Valparaiso University students, faculty, and staff for personal use at a discounted rate. See our Kivuto Solutions webpage for more information on pricing and product availability.

Anti-Virus Software

Up to date anti-virus software should be installed on your personal computer, configured to automatically update, and regular scans scheduled. You are welcome to purchase a subscription-based anti-virus suite (ex.: McAfee or Norton/Symantec). Anti-virus products that are free for personal use (ex.: Kaspersky, Avira, Avast, AVG, or Windows Security Essentials) will also meet the requirement. NOTE: You should NOT run multiple anti-virus programs on the same machine.

It is a good idea to have additional anti-malware / anti-spyware software (ex.: Spybot, AdAware, Malwarebytes) or simply use a security suite which provides both antivirus and anti-malware in one software package (ex.: AVG, Trend Micro, Norton 360 or Internet Security). Enable your computer's firewall for additional protection.

Peripheral Equipment

Sound or video cards, printers, speakers, etc. are at the discretion of the individual. When deciding on these please remember to take into account desk space in a residence hall room. The same applies with laptop docks, external monitor/keyboard/mouse, etc.

College / Program Requirements

Some colleges such as the College of Engineering or other academic programs may offer their own suggestions of machine capabilities or system requirements for the specific work being done in those programs. Please consult your program for these specifications.

Need More Help?

Contact the IT Help Desk for further consultation at 219.464.5678 or email us at it.helpdesk@valpo.edu.