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Buying a Computer

What Computer Should I Buy?

The following outlines the recommended considerations when buying a computer as a UD student.

Recommended System Specifications

 

WINDOWS PC

APPLE MAC

Operating System

MINIMUM
Windows 8.1

RECOMMENDED
Windows 10 Home or Pro

MINIMUM
Mac OS 10.11

RECOMMENDED
Mac OS 10.14

Productivity Tools

Microsoft Office can be downloaded for free, please refer to the instructions:
Get MS Office

Microsoft Office can be downloaded for free, please refer to the instructions:
Get MS Office

Processor Type

MINIMUM
Core i5 Processor

RECOMMENDED
Core i7 Processor

MINIMUM
Core i5 Processor

RECOMMENDED
Core i7 Processor

Memory (RAM)

MINIMUM
8 GB

RECOMMENDED
16 GB or higher

MINIMUM
8 GB

RECOMMENDED
16 GB or higher

Hard Drive

MINIMUM
256 GB

RECOMMENDED
512 GB or higher

MINIMUM
256 GB

RECOMMENDED
512 GB or higher

Warranty

RECOMMENDED
4 year parts and labor

RECOMMENDED
3 year AppleCare+

Insurance

Comprehensive breakage, theft, liquid spill, hazard (strongly recommended)

Virus Protection Software

Anti-Virus software is required on all computers connecting to the UD network. Some recommended products are MalwareBytes Premium, McAfee Total Protection, and Norton AntiVirus Plus. 

Recommended Accessories

  • USB Memory Storage Devices: Strongly recommended for their portability and use with the on-campus printing labs and printing kiosks. 
  • Ethernet cable: These are required for use of the wired connections on campus.

Optional Accessories

  • Personal Printer: For ease of printing from your dorm, apartment, or home. There are also many public printers available on campus, in the print labs or at the printing kiosks. 

The University of Dallas has developed partnerships with computer manufacturers in order to provide discounts for our students. Please click the links below to take advantage of these discounts: