Hardware

MSB Undergraduate Computer Requirements

MSB undergraduate students must have a laptop capable of running Windows 11 on an Intel or AMD Ryzen computer processor. Several software programs used at the MSB are incompatible with ARM-based CPUs, which include the latest Apple Silicon chips, M1, M2, and M3. Our recommended specifications ensure that you have the best possible experience with your computer throughout your academic career. If you deviate from these recommendations, you may encounter more computer issues. 

Minimum Computer Requirements

• Operating System: Windows 11

• Minimum PC Specs: 

  • Processor: Intel Core i5 or i7 or AMD Ryzen 5 or 7

  • Memory: 16GB RAM

  • Storage: 512GB SSD

• You are also required to have administrative access to your computer. If your computer is provided to you by your workplace, you likely won't have this access!

Manufacturer Recommendation: Lenovo

Though we do not have an education discount, we recommend purchasing directly from Lenovo, as they offer the best prices and "business-class" laptops, known for better battery life and durability than "consumer-grade" laptops. The Tech Center is currently deploying the Lenovo ThinkPad T14s with an AMD processor to all faculty and staff. You can find Lenovo's ThinkPad models here: https://www.lenovo.com/us/en/thinkpad

Computer Warranty
Regardless of the computer brand you purchase, we strongly advise investing in a minimum 3-year warranty—the greater the coverage, the better. We suggest selecting at least the 3-year Better Premier Onsite Support if you opt for Lenovo.

Incompatible Hardware:

• ARM-based CPUs

  • Qualcomm Technologies’ new Snapdragon X Elite processor

  • Macs with Apple Silicon (M1, M2, M3 chips)
    Please do not buy M1, M2, or M3 MacBook Pros, MacBook Airs, or Mac Minis, which are ARM-based CPUs. All student computers must run the 64-bit version of Windows 11. Some core classes require software that only works on Windows with Intel or AMD processors. Macs with M1, M2, and M3 chips do not support the necessary software.

  • Unfortunately, using virtualized Windows 11 on the latest MacBooks is not an option, as the necessary software is not compatible with the hardware of the newest Macs. 

• Microsoft Surface devices (Though some are compatible, their warranty service is not ideal)

• iPads and other tablets (Android or Apple)

• Chromebooks

MSB Graduate Computer Requirements

PCs are encouraged in graduate programs but check with your program liaison if you prefer a Mac. We recommend the specifications below, regardless of which type of computer you go with. If you deviate from these recommendations, you may encounter more computer issues.

Minimum Computer Requirements

• Operating System: Windows 11 or Sonoma OS

• Minimum PC Specs: 

  • Processor: Intel Core i5 or i7 or AMD Ryzen 5 or 7 or the Apple Silicon CPUs

  • Memory: 16GB RAM

  • Storage: 512GB SSD

• You are also required to have administrative access to your computer. If your computer is provided to you by your workplace, you likely won't have this access!

Manufacturer Recommendation: Lenovo

Though we do not have an education discount, we recommend purchasing directly from Lenovo, as they offer the best prices and "business-class" laptops, known for better battery life and durability than "consumer-grade" laptops. The Tech Center is currently deploying the Lenovo ThinkPad T14s with an AMD processor to all faculty and staff. You can find Lenovo's ThinkPad models here: https://www.lenovo.com/us/en/thinkpad

Computer Warranty
Regardless of the computer brand you purchase, we strongly advise investing in a minimum 3-year warranty—the greater the coverage, the better. We suggest selecting at least the 3-year Better Premier Onsite Support if you opt for Lenovo. If you go for an Apple device, we strongly encourage you to consider AppleCare for your computer.

If you still have questions, please email the Tech Center at msbhelp@georgetown.edu