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 any of the latest Apple Silicon chips, M1-M5, as well as Qualcomm's Snapdragon X Elite processor. 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 will 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

Please keep in mind that this is a recommendation--you do not have to purchase a Lenovo. As long as your computer meets the minimum computer requirements listed above, you can purchase whatever brand you like. 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 and X1 Carbon with an AMD processor or Intel 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 warranty that covers the duration of your time as a student. We suggest going with "Lenovo Premier Onsite Support" warranty if you opt for Lenovo. 

Incompatible Hardware:

• ARM-based CPUs

  • Qualcomm Technologies’ new Snapdragon X Elite processor

  • Macs with Apple Silicon (M1-M5 chips)
    Please do not buy 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-M5 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 incompatible with the Apple Silicon chips.

• iPads and other tablets (Android or iOS)

• Chromebooks

MSB Graduate Computer Requirements

PCs are highly recommended for our graduate programs per the specifications below. If you deviate from these recommendations, you will 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 warranty that covers the duration of your time as a student. We suggest going with "Lenovo Premier Onsite Support" warranty if you opt for Lenovo.

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