Computer Minimum System Recommendations
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Specs |
Windows PC |
Mac |
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Operating System |
Minimum: Windows 10 Recommended: Windows 10 or 11 |
Mac OS 11.7.10 (Big Sur) |
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Processor |
Minimum: Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5 Recommended: Intel Core i7 or AMD Ryzen 7 |
Minimum: M2 Recommended: M2x |
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Memory/RAM |
Minimum: 8GB or higher Recommended: 16GB |
Minimum: 8GB or higher Recommended: 16GB |
|
Storage |
Minimum: 250GB HD/SSD Recommended: 500GB or higher SSD |
Minimum: 250GB HD/SSD Recommended: 500GB or higher SSD |
|
Graphics Card |
1GB VRAM or higher Recommended: 4 to 6GB |
1GB VRAM or higher Recommended: 4 to 6GB |
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Warranty (recommended) |
4 year parts and labor |
3 year parts and labor (AppleCare) |
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Insurance (recommended) Check your homeowner policy to see if coverage is available |
Comprehensive coverage against theft, fire, liquid spills and general damage |
Comprehensive coverage against theft, fire, liquid spills and general damage |
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Productivity Software |
Microsoft 365: Applications can be downloaded free through your SWU email account. |
Microsoft 365: Applications can be downloaded free through your SWU email account. |
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Web Browser Requirements for Canvas (LMS) |
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Virus/Malware Protection Software |
There are several free antivirus apps that are suitable for use. Recommended: Windows Defender / Malwarebytes |
There are several free antivirus apps that are suitable for use. Recommended: Avast / Malwarebytes |
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Network Access Software |
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Recommended Accessories |
USB Storage Device: Flash/thumb drive or external hard drive |
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1 – SWU’s IT department no longer supports Windows 8.1 for PC or MacOS 10.15.7 (Catalina). All operating systems should be later than the versions listed.
2 ;– Students can use and download Microsoft 365 applications through their school-issued email account. This includes commonly used productivity tools such as Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
3 - The I.T. department recommends that students purchase some type of external backup media. This will assist in data backup and file transfers. Options include USB flash drives, external hard drives/solid-state drives, or cloud storage (Internet-based).