Computer Buying Guide
Personal use
Students and staff are advised to purchase computers listed under "Small Business" or "Business" categories rather than from "Consumer" product lines. Follow the specifications listed below to gain the most longevity from your computer.
Enterprise systems use and University-owned computers
Faculty and professional staff who use Drexel Core Enterprise Business Applications (Banner, Hyperion, etc.) should contact their system administrators or the Help Desk (215.895.2020) to review compatibility requirements. Purchase computers through Drexel Smart Source standard configurations. Purchased computers must be compatible with the University standard security and encryption software, and in line with the associated Drexel policies.
Recommended specifications for personally-owned computers
| Component |
Recommendation |
| Processor |
Intel Core i5, AMD Ryzen, or System on a Chip (SoC) |
| Operating Systems |
Windows 11 or latest macOS
Core Enterprise Business Application Users: Use Smart Source, available through DrexelOne, and call your departmental or IT tech support professional to arrange set up.
|
| Memory (RAM) |
16 GB |
| Network and Wireless |
REQUIRED: Dual-Band 2.4 - 5 GHz Wireless 802.11 ac/a/n
NOT RECOMMENDED: Single-Band (2.4 GHz) Wireless Cards such as b/g/n
Wi-Fi (Wireless) Card Recommendations
|
| Display & Graphics Card |
If your work is graphically intensive or involves engineering design, you should consider additional graphics memory and a large-screen laptop or an additional larger monitor. |