---
title: "Faculty and Staff Device Requirements"
canonical: "https://kb.uconn.edu/space/IKB/10895589476/Faculty%20and%20Staff%20Device%20Requirements"
format: markdown
---
Employees must use a compliant university-managed device for their work. Devices purchased through HuskyBuy and the PC Refresh Program meet modern computing requirements. Device users and fiscal administrators can learn about these specifications.
## Technical specifications for computers
Devices must be portable, sufficiently up-to-date, and have adequate memory and storage. They must also be able to run the newest version of their respective operating system (Windows 11 and macOS 26 - Tahoe). This allows them to operate effectively and securely both inside and outside of the UConn environment. Below are the minimum technical specifications for computers:
Windows specifications
### Minimum specifications
> ⚠️ **Your computer must support and run Windows 11.** Windows 10 is no longer supported by Microsoft and is not receiving software updates. Learn more here: [https://uconn.atlassian.net/wiki/spaces/IKB/pages/27657830466](https://uconn.atlassian.net/wiki/spaces/IKB/pages/27657830466)
| **Processor** | Intel Core i5, AMD Ryzen 5 (devices issued by ITS use Intel processors) |
| --- | --- |
| **Memory (RAM)** | 16 GB |
| **Internal Storage** | 256 GB solid-state drive (SSD) |
### Recommended specifications
| **Processor** | Intel Core i7, AMD Ryzen 7 (devices issued by ITS use Intel processors) |
| --- | --- |
| **Memory (RAM)** | 16 GB or more |
| **Internal Storage** | 512 GB or more solid-state drive (SSD) |
> ⚠️ **Important note about Windows on ARM**
> ⚠️ Microsoft has recently unveiled a range of new devices branded as “Copilot+ PCs”. Instead of using a traditional Intel or AMD processor, some these computers use a **Snapdragon X-series processor**. These use a different computing architecture than the majority of computers on the market.
> ⚠️
> ⚠️ We have done some testing of these machines and while most applications are supported and work well, we have identified a few that are buggy or just refuse to open. Software vendors will need to update their apps to work on these new computers. Until software support improves, **we do not recommend buying a Windows on ARM PC**.
macOS specifications
Your Mac must support and run the newest version of macOS. The current version is macOS 26 “Tahoe”.
### Minimum specifications
| **Processor** | Apple M1 |
| --- | --- |
| **Memory (RAM)** | 16 GB |
| **Internal Storage** | 256 GB solid-state drive (SSD) |
### Recommended specifications
| **Processor** | Apple M1 or newer |
| --- | --- |
| **Memory (RAM)** | 16 GB or more |
| **Internal Storage** | 512 GB or more solid-state drive (SSD) |
> ⚠️ **Important note about Intel-based Macs**
> ⚠️ In 2020, Apple transitioned from Intel-based processors to Apple silicon. Apple silicon-powered Macs are significantly more powerful and efficient than older models. macOS 27, coming later in 2026, will not support Intel Macs. **If you plan to buy a Mac, it must have an Apple silicon M-series processor.**
iPad specifications
While an iPad is usually not appropriate as a primary device for work, they are supported at UConn for supplementary work purposes. When purchasing an iPad, you should make sure that it can run iPadOS 26, the newest version released in September 2025.
### Data encryption requirement
> ⚠️ The State of Connecticut requires that all data on state-owned computers be encrypted. When purchasing a Windows PC, the device must have a TPM chip and must be encrypted. Older computers and budget models lack a TPM chip and cannot be encrypted. Apple computers do not require a TPM chip but must be encrypted.
**ITS supports computers from Dell and Apple. Buying a device from another manufacturer may limit the ability for ITS to assist. **The University has support agreements with both Dell and Apple that enable expedited repairs. If you have any questions, please contact the Technology Support Center at 860-486-4357 or [techsupport@uconn.edu](mailto:techsupport@uconn.edu).
### Warranty
- ITS standard is to purchase a minimum of a 3-year warranty on all new computers and tablets.
- Laptop computers are purchased with Dell Accidental Damage Protection / Apple AppleCare+.
- Dell warranties are ProSupport with next-day parts and service.
- iPads are ordered with AppleCare+ 3 years.
### Printers
Employee printing is centralized through [UPrint](https://uconn.atlassian.net/wiki/spaces/IKB/pages/26928676873). The UPrint program, and the printers within it, are centrally funded by the university. Employees may not purchase printers with university funds and ITS cannot support printers purchased with personal funds.
## Recommended devices
> 📝 If your department or unit participates in the [PC Refresh Program](https://uconn.atlassian.net/wiki/spaces/IKB/pages/10853879237), you should talk to your local IT professional or fiscal administrator to request a purchase.
You can buy all of these recommended items through the vendors at [HuskyBuy](https://huskybuy.uconn.edu/).
### Laptop
| | **Standard usage** | **High intensity usage** |
| --- | --- | --- |
| **Windows** | Dell Pro Plus (formerly *Dell Latitude*), 14” or 16” | Dell Pro Max (formerly *Dell Precision*), 14” or 16” |
| **Mac** | MacBook Air, 13” or 15” | MacBook Pro, 14” or 16” |
### Monitors
#### Primary
Dell Pro Plus Video Conferencing Monitor
- 24” - P2424HEB
- 27” - P2724DEB
- 34” (ultra-wide) - P3424WEB
#### Secondary
Dell Pro Plus USB-C Hub Monitor
- 24”, FHD - P2425HE
- 27”, QHD - P2725DE
> ✅ To learn how to connect these monitors, visit [https://uconn.atlassian.net/wiki/spaces/IKB/pages/26013826103](https://uconn.atlassian.net/wiki/spaces/IKB/pages/26013826103)
### Accessories
- Headset: Lenovo 100 USB Stereo Headset or Logitech H390 USB Headset
- Webcam: Logitech C930e
- Network adapters: USB-C → Ethernet or USB-A → Ethernet
- Video adapter: USB-C → HDMI
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