Computer Recommendations
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Last Updated: Oct 09, 2026, 11:20 AM
Student Computer Recommendations
Choosing a computer for Information Technology (ITEC), Cybersecurity Technology (CTEC), Computer Science (CS), or Artificial Intelligence+ (AI+)? Start with the guidance below.
What should I buy?
Safest choice for all four programs: A Windows 11 laptop with an Intel or AMD 64-bit processor, 32 GB RAM, and a 1 TB SSD.
Lower-cost option: 16 GB RAM and a 512 GB SSD can be sufficient for many courses. CTEC students running several virtual machines locally should plan on 32 GB RAM. A dedicated graphics card is not required for typical coursework.
Which devices work with my major?
| Degree program | Recommended platform | Minimum memory and storage | Preferred memory and storage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Information Technology (ITEC) | Windows 11 on Intel or AMD. Macs are not recommended for ITEC. | 16 GB RAM; 512 GB SSD | 32 GB RAM; 1 TB SSD |
| Cybersecurity Technology (CTEC) | Windows 11 on Intel or AMD, with hardware virtualization support. | 16 GB RAM; 512 GB SSD | 32 GB RAM; 1 TB SSD. Plan on 32 GB RAM for multiple local virtual machines. |
| Computer Science (CS) | Windows 11 (Intel/AMD), macOS, or Linux (Intel/AMD). | 16 GB RAM; 512 GB SSD | 32 GB RAM; 1 TB SSD |
| Artificial Intelligence+ (AI+) | Windows 11 (Intel/AMD), macOS, or Linux (Intel/AMD). A dedicated GPU is optional for typical coursework. | 16 GB RAM; 512 GB SSD | 32 GB RAM; 1 TB SSD |
Memory figures above refer to system RAM, or unified memory on Apple Silicon Macs, for general coursework. For local AI work, dedicated GPU memory (VRAM) and GPU-accessible unified memory must be considered separately from these general recommendations. See the program details below for software and lab limitations.
Information Technology (ITEC)
Best-supported choice: Windows 11 on an Intel or AMD laptop. Other devices: Macs and Linux computers can handle many tasks, but Windows-only administration tools may require a Windows virtual machine or a campus computer. ARM-based devices may have additional software limitations.
Cybersecurity Technology (CTEC)
Best-supported choice: Windows 11 on an Intel or AMD laptop, preferably with 32 GB RAM for security labs and virtual machines. Other devices: Linux may work for some courses. Macs, especially Apple Silicon models, and Windows-on-ARM laptops may not run required x86 virtual machines. A 16 GB laptop may need access to approved remote labs.
Computer Science (CS)
Generally compatible: Windows 11 (Intel/AMD), macOS (Intel/Apple Silicon), or Linux (Intel/AMD). Limitations: Some operating-systems, architecture, and advanced courses may require particular software or x86-based environments. Mac and Linux users may need a virtual machine or campus lab.
Artificial Intelligence+ (AI+)
Generally compatible: Windows 11 (Intel/AMD), macOS (Intel/Apple Silicon), or Linux (Intel/AMD) for programming and AI tools. Limitations: Macs and laptops without an NVIDIA GPU cannot run NVIDIA CUDA locally. GPU-intensive assignments may require course-provided computing resources; local dedicated GPUs are optional for typical coursework.
Before buying another type of device
Chromebooks, iPads, and Android tablets: Not recommended as a student's only computer; they cannot run many required desktop applications or virtual machines. Windows laptops with Snapdragon/ARM processors: Check with your program first because some x86 software and lab images may be incompatible.
If you are taking courses or a minor in another program, follow the stricter requirements. Contact your program advisor before purchasing a non-Windows or ARM-based device; access to remote labs depends on the course.