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 field 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

Peripheral Equipment

Sound or video cards, printers, speakers, etc. are left to your discretion. When deciding on these, please remember to take residence hall desk space into account. The same applies to laptop docks, external monitor/keyboard/mouse, etc.

Office Productivity Suite Software

Microsoft Office 2010 Professional 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 for Windows; for Macs, 2008 or higher. Office 365 is acceptable.

Anti-Virus Software

Up to date anti-virus software should be installed on your personal computer, configured to automatically update, and scheduled to run regular scans. You are welcome to install either a free or subscription-based anti-virus suite. NOTE: You should NOT run multiple anti-virus programs on the same machine.

It is a good idea to have anti-malware / anti-spyware software, or use a security suite which provides both antivirus and anti-malware in one software package. Enable your computer's firewall for additional protection.

College / Program Requirements

Some programs, 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 via phone at 219.464.5678 or online at webhelpdesk.valpo.edu.