Student Computer Requirements, Recommendations, and Tips

Tips:

1. Students are not required to have a laptop but the vast majority do. General use computer labs are located throughout campus. 
2. How about a tablet or Chromebook? - We DO NOT recommend tablets or Chromebook as your primary computing device.  Applications like Logicola, Respondus and others will not work on those devices.  
3. Windows versus Mac - Gannon fully supports both and each features some advantages over the other. We suggest you get what you have used and what you are comfortable with. Changing from one OS to something new can just add unnecessary stress and be a distraction from your academic work.  
4. Get a good warranty that includes accidental damage for at least 2 years - Unless you have a plan if something goes wrong, it gives you one less point of stress and distraction.  
5. Shop Around - When purchasing a new computer, start with Dell at the link below and shop around. Compare the price to similarly configured systems. Check trusted retailers and electronic stores. Recommended manufacturers include: Samsung, Dell, Lenovo, Hewlett Packard (HP), Asus, Apple, and Microsoft (in no particular order).
6. Microsoft Office is free to Gannon Students - When buying a computer it is not necessary to bundle in Microsoft Office. More information is here. 
7. Check with your academic program to see if they have any recommendations.  

NOTE: Wired jacks are not available so if you are bringing a desktop computer it must have a wireless adapter to connect to the Internet. 

Recommended Minimum Requirements: 

• Windows 10 or Mac OS 12+
• Dual core Intel i5 - 10th Gen
• 256 solid state HD 
• 16 GB Memory (RAM)
• Up-to-date anti-virus software
• Microsoft Office (free license while a student at Gannon)
• Wireless 802.11 n/ac
• 3 year warranty plus on site labor and accidental damage protection for laptops