Please Note: Before purchasing a computer, check with your college/department to determine computer requirements for your field of study.
Operating System:
Windows 10 (newest)
MacOS (Mojave or newer)
Processor (CPU):
Windows: Intel Core i5 (7th generation 7000 series) or AMD Ryzen or better
Mac: Intel Core i5 (7th generation 7000 series) or Apple M1 or better.
Monitor:
Laptop: 13” screen or larger
Desktop: 24” monitor or larger
Storage:
256 gigabytes or larger solid-state drives (SSD).
Memory (RAM):
8 gigabytes or more for typical use.
16 gigabytes or more for Adobe Creative Suite applications and other graphic- and video-intensive applications.
Software:
Microsoft 365 (Word, Excel, etc.) is available to all CWU Students at no charge. Visit Microsoft Office and sign in with CWU credentials.
Required: Antivirus Software. Windows Defender is sufficient for Windows 10 computers
Networking:
CWU residence halls have a dedicated Ethernet connection for every student, in addition to wifi access. If you purchase a laptop, please make sure you have a laptop with a wireless network card that supports 2.4Ghz and 5Ghz wireless bands.
Important Notes:
- CWU has 20 onsite open computer labs (mainly on the Ellensburg campus), plus locations where you can temporarily check out PC and Mac laptops, approximately 800 computers in total. If you do not have a computer, you can generally get access to one.
- CWU also provides access to a Windows Virtual Desktop solution. CWU students with an internet connection can access the CWU virtual lab environment via a variety of devices.
