Northwestern Information Technology (IT) establishes minimum hardware guidelines to assist in purchasing a computer for use at Northwestern. PleasecCheck with your individual school for additional requirements.
Desktop — Minimum
*NOTE* In order to comply with Northwestern IT's encryption policy, please turn on TPM (Trusted Platform Module) upon set up of your computer. This module allows the computer to be encrypted with Bitlocker, which is Northwestern IT's encryption solution.
Expect to use the computer for basic productivity, running multiple applications such as e-mail, web browsing, word processing, music and video players, and photo organization.
| Category |
Description |
| Processor |
Intel Core Ultra i5 Processor |
| Memory |
16GB |
| Hard Drive |
512GB Solid state disk (SSD) |
| CD/DVD drive |
Optional |
| Network |
Gigabit Ethernet |
| Monitor |
24" LCD display @120 Hz Refresh Rate with EnergyStar rating |
| Video card/VRAM |
Integrated graphics |
| Ports |
USB 3.0, HDMI, DisplayPort |
| Operating system |
Windows 11 Pro |
| Warranty |
3-4 year extended warranty |
Desktop — Power User
In addition to the tasks above, expect to resource intensive programs for audio/video editing, graphic design, running multiple operating systems, storing large multimedia files and playing games.
| Category |
Description |
| Processor |
Intel Core Ultra i7 Processor |
| Memory |
32GB |
| Hard drive |
2TB Solid state disk (SSD) |
| CD/DVD drive |
Optional |
| Network |
Gigabit Ethernet, 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6), Bluetooth 5.2 or higher |
| Monitor |
27" LED display @300 Hz with EnergyStar rating |
| Video card/VRAM |
4GB or Higher Dedicated Video Card |
| Ports |
USB 3.0, HDMI, DisplayPort |
| Operating system |
Windows 11 Pro |
| Warranty |
3-4 year extended warranty |