Overview
The hardware listed below will meet typical computing needs for most UWF students. Configuration upgrades may be required for certain applications, research projects, etc.
Students should consult with their faculty and department technology support staff for assistance choosing configuration options and peripherals, or for information on additional hardware needs.
Windows Desktop | Windows Laptop | Surface/Tablet | Apple Desktop | Apple Laptop | ||||||
| Minimum | Recommended | Minimum | Recommended | Minimum | Recommended | Minimum | Recommended | Minimum | Recommended | |
| Processor/CPU | i3 Series or AMD Equivalent | i5 Series or AMD Equivalent | i3 Series or AMD Equivalent | i5 Series or AMD Equivalent | i5 Series | i5 Series | i5 Series | i7 Series | m3 Series | i5 Series |
| Memory/RAM | 6 GB | 16 GB | 6 GB | 16 GB | 4 GB | 16 GB | 8 GB | 16 GB | 8 GB | 16 GB |
| Hard Drive/Storage | 250 GB | 512 GB | 250 GB | 500 GB SSD | 128 GB SSD | 250 GB SSD | 500 GB (Serial ATA Drive @ 5400 rpm) | 1 TB (Fusion Drive) | 128 GB | 256 GB |
| Display | 20" | 22" | 13" | 15.6" | 12.3" | 12.3" | 21.5" | 27" | 11" | 13" |
| Video Card | Integrated Graphics | Dual-Monitor Support | Integrated Graphics | Integrated Graphics | Integrated Graphics | Integrated Graphics | Integrated Graphics | Integrated Graphics | Integrated Graphics | Integrated Graphics |
| Operating System | Windows 10 | Windows 10 | Windows 10 | Windows 10 | Windows 10 | Windows 10 | Latest macOS | Latest macOS | Latest macOS | Latest macOS |
| Network Adapter (LAN) | Gigabit Ethernet | Gigabit Ethernet | Gigabit Ethernet | Gigabit Ethernet | USB Ethernet Adapter | USB Ethernet Adapter | Gigabit Ethernet | Gigabit Ethernet | USB Ethernet Adapter | USB Ethernet Adapter |
| Warranty | 3-year Basic | 3-year Basic | 3-year Basic + Accidental Damage | 3-year Basic + Accidental Damage | 1-year | 3-year + Accidental Damage | 1-Year | 3-year AppleCare+ Protection Plan | 1-Year | 3-year AppleCare+ Protection Plan |
| Additional Peripherals | ||||||||||
| Battery Backups (UPS) | Optional | Optional | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | Optional | Optional | N/A | N/A |
| Optical Drive | Optional | Optional | Optional | Optional | Optional | Optional | Optional | Optional | Optional | Optional |
| External Audio | Optional | Speakers | Optional | Optional | Optional | Optional | Optional | Speakers | Optional | Optional |
| Webcam | Optional | Optional | Optional | HD Webcam w/Microphone | Integrated | Integrated | Integrated | Integrated | Integrated | Integrated |
| Covers/Cases | N/A | N/A | Optional | Optional | Optional | Type Cover Keyboard | N/A | N/A | Optional | Optional |
For many new Apple computers, we recommend a USB-C-to-USB adapters.
Educational Discounts
Most computer manufacturers offer educational discounts on their websites. Shop around for the best price and warranty before purchasing. UWF does not endorse or recommend a specific vendor or manufacturer; however, the following are examples of educational stores that are available:
Microsoft Office
University of West Florida Information Technology Services is providing Microsoft Office 365 ProPlus to students at no cost via the Microsoft Student Advantage program. Each student may install this software on up to five computers. Details can be found in the Office 365 Student Advantage article.
Microsoft Office is also available for free through UWF’s ArgoApps.
Anti-Virus Software
It is recommended for all computers to have a reputable, commercially-available anti-virus software installed. Most new computers come with a trial copy of anti-virus software, but when it expires the computer becomes vulnerable. It is important to use a non-trial version of an anti-virus. In addition, all personally-owned computers should be regularly scanned for spyware with a legitimate anti-spyware program such as Malwarebytes Anti-Malware. For further information on viruses, please refer to the Help Desk's article.
Adopted 3/29/17
(850) 474-2075ITS Help Desk
helpdesk@uwf.edu