Recommended Windows and Macintosh Computer Specifications

The following recommended configurations are for existing and newly purchased Windows and Macintosh computers. While lesser configurations may work in the existing Brown computing environment, they may not in the future. Please be aware that the amount of support CIS provides is limited by the support available from hardware and software vendors. CIS strongly recommends purchasing computers manufactured by Dell or Apple.

NOTE: Computers must meet minimum recommended standards to receive support from the Computing Help Desk or CIS support staff.

Windows Systems

(See the CIS Operating System Support Statement)

CIS has developed a list of recommended Windows desktop and laptop configurations that work best in Brown's computing environment. Dell Optiplex is the recommended standard desktop computer. Dell Latitude and Dell Precision are the recommended laptops. To maximize compatibility with Brown's network and to best suit your needs, a selection of Dell computer models are suggested. These models are supported by CIS and have been selected to ensure a long life cycle and compatibility with software available from CIS.

CIS strongly recommends purchasing computers manufactured by Dell. However, if you elect to purchase or use another brand for your desktop or laptop, please select a model that meets the hardware specifications below.

Recommendations for a NEW Windows computer:

Desktop Configuration
Laptop Configuration
  • *Modern Processor (see below)
  • 2GB RAM
  • flat panel display (LCD)
  • 160GB hard drive
  • DVD/CD-RW
  • 10/100/1000 Ethernet
  • 256MB+ Video RAM, (integrated Intel GMA 3000)
  • Windows XP Pro SP2
  • *Modern Processor (see below)
  • 2GB RAM
  • 80GB hard drive
  • DVD/CD-RW
  • 10/100/1000 Ethernet
  • WiFi wireless
  • Windows XP Pro SP2
CompleteCare is strongly advised for personal purchases

CIS recommends selecting a computer meeting these specifications from our selection of recommended Dell computers.
 

The MINIMUM Help Desk supported specifications for any computer running Windows at Brown this semester are:

Minimum for Windows XP Pro SP2
Desktop Configuration
Laptop Configuration
  • 1.5GHz processor
  • 512MB RAM
  • 40GB hard drive
  • DVD
  • 10/100 Ethernet
  • 667MHz mobile processor
  • 512MB RAM
  • 40GB hard drive
  • DVD
  • 10/100 Ethernet

Access to a writable CD or DVD drive is strongly recommended.
Minimum for Windows Vista
Desktop Configuration
Laptop Configuration
  • *Modern Processor (see below)
  • 2GB RAM
  • flat panel display (LCD)
  • 160GB hard drive
  • DVD/CD-RW
  • 10/100/1000 Ethernet
  • 256MB+ Video RAM, (integrated Intel GMA 3000)
  • Vista Business/ Enterprise/ Ultimate
  • *Modern Processor (see below)
  • 2GB RAM
  • 80GB hard drive
  • DVD/CD-RW
  • 10/100/1000 Ethernet
  • WiFi wireless
  • 256MB+ Video RAM
  • Vista Business/ Enterprise/ Ultimate

*Modern processor such as the Intel Dual Core. Processor speed is not the sole factor for determining CPU performance in today's technology. Architecture and features such as cache size must also be considered.

Macintosh Systems

(See the CIS Operating System Support Statement)

CIS has developed a list of recommended Apple desktop and laptop configurations that work best in Brown's computing environment. To maximize compatibility with Brown's network and to best suit your needs, a selection of Apple computer models are suggested. These models are supported by CIS and have been selected to ensure a long life cycle and compatibility with software available from CIS.

Recommendations for a NEW Macintosh:

Desktop Configuration
Laptop Configuration
  • Intel-based processor
  • 2GB RAM
  • flat panel display (LCD)
  • 160GB hard drive
  • SuperDrive
  • 10/100/1000 Ethernet
  • Mac OS 10.5+
  • Intel-based processor
  • 2GB RAM
  • 80GB hard drive
  • SuperDrive
  • 10/100/1000 Ethernet
  • WiFi/AirPort wireless
  • Mac OS 10.5+

AppleCare is strongly advised for personal purchases.

CIS recommends selecting a computer meeting these specifications from our selection of recommended Apple computers.
 

The MINIMUM Help Desk supported specifications for any Apple Computer at Brown this semester are:

Desktop Configuration
Laptop Configuration
  • 1.2GHz PowerPC or Intel processor
  • 512MB RAM
  • 40GB hard drive
  • DVD
  • 10/100 Ethernet
  • Mac OS 10.4.11+
  • 1GHz PowerPC or Intel processor
  • 512MB RAM
  • 40GB hard drive
  • DVD
  • 10/100 Ethernet
  • Mac OS 10.4.11+
  • Access to a writable CD or DVD drive is strongly recommended.
  • 1GB of memory is required to run Mac OS 10.5.