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Hege Library & Learning Technologies

Computing Technology Recommendations

Guide to information, resources, and support services with links to commons partners.

Computing Technology Recommendations

Recommended Computing Technology

 

To successfully engage in your coursework at Guilford, dedicated use of a laptop computer is highly recommended. While a desktop computer may suffice, a laptop is preferable because its mobility provides maximum flexibility. Your computer should be at most five years old from the date of its production. You are encouraged to take advantage of discounted pricing on PC and Mac laptops available through the College. 

 

To ensure your success, your computer should be equipped to meet the following minimum requirements:

 

  • Operating System: Windows 11 or MACOS 13

  • 13” screen (diagonal measurement)

  • 16 GB RAM 

  • 250 GB Hard Drive

  • Intel Core i5 or equivalent processor from Intel or a Ryzen-5 from AMD (“SSDs” offer better performance and more durability than SATA drives)

  • Camera and Mic (i.e. Webcam)

  • Wifi Capabilities

  • At least a 3 year warranty on your computer

  • Consider durability in a laptop to ensure that it holds up as you travel around campus and beyond!

  • Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Access) is a standard suite of applications that will be useful for most courses, and in many cases required. Guilford enables free downloading of the MS Office suite.

  • Reliable high-speed internet access - Although not required, having a download speed of 25 Mbps and an upload speed of 3 Mbps may be helpful both on campus and in your home environment where multiple computer users are in close proximity. Test your internet speed now with Speedtest.net or Google's Fiber Speed Test. Worried about cost of broadband Internet connection at home? See list of vendors offering free and low-cost options .

 

Recommended Internet Browsers

 

 

Essential Apps for your Smartphone

 

All Mobile Devices Are Not Created Equal

 

We know that your mobile devices help you perform many valuable tasks. However, not all mobile devices will enable you to complete your assignments successfully. At this time, Chromebooks, tablets (e.g. iPads, Androids), and smartphones are not recommended for coursework at Guilford. Their use for class assignments may result in limited functionality, loss of work, and inability to access some of your course materials. The best mobile device to use in fulfilling your academic requirements is a laptop with the minimum requirements stated above.