Feature Recommended Minimum
CPU Quad Core or higher Dual Core 
Memory 16GB or Higher 8GB Minimum
Hard Drive 500GB or larger 250 GB
Network

802.11ac Wireless Card

802.11n Wireless Card
Operating System
Windows: Win10
Mac - 10.14 (Mojave) or higher 
We do not recommend Chromebooks

Windows: Win10.
Mac - 10.14 (Mojave) or higher 

Desktop vs. Laptop? Laptops offer more flexibility in a college environment but either desktop or laptop is acceptable.

Mac vs. PC? This is a personal decision. Both are acceptable and work on the college network.

Notes on Application Compatibility
Windows - Will run all application used at Connecticut College
Mac - Will run most of the applications used at Connecticut College
Chromebooks - Will run very few of the application used at Connecticut College

Printer? You do not need to bring a printer to Connecticut College. Inkjet printers require expensive ink cartridges and are not reliable. Wireless printers cause wireless interference in the residence halls and are discouraged.

We strongly suggest the following:

  • If you buy a Mac, pay for AppleCare. AppleCare AppleCare is an extended warranty and not an insurance policy.
  • If you buy a PC, opt for an extended warranty with accidental care for as long as you would like to keep the computer and as long as your budget permits.
  • If you do not backup your personal data to an online service such as Dropbox or Google Drive, buy an external storage drive to backup your data. Hard drives fail all the time and the IT Service Desk cannot guarantee file recovery.

It is highly recommended that you contact the Service Desk before upgrading your operating system to ensure that the operating system is compatible with current network security standards.