Laptop standards (SCI - Computer Science)

Laptop standards (SCI - Computer Science)

Use the minimum specifications table below as a guideline when acquiring a machine for your 2025-26 courses. These specifications are recommended for successful Ontario Tech University software usage. 

visit suggested devices

	Windows PC	Mac
Operating system	Windows 11 64-bit (Pro edition is preferred) Windows 11 S is not supported due to restricted functionality Windows must have the latest updates installed	Mac OS version 14 or higher with Windows 11 installed in a VM or via Boot Camp (Pro edition is preferred).
Processor type	Intel: Core i5/ Core Ultra 5 or better AMD: Ryzen 5 or better	Intel: Core i5/ Core Ultra 5 or better Apple Silicon: Any M series CPU
Memory	Minimum 16GB RAM	Minimum 16GB RAM
Hard drive	Minimum 250GB, 50GB of available space (SSD recommended)	Minimum 250GB, 50GB of available space (SSD recommended)
Graphics card	Intel Integrated Graphics or better	Intel Integrated Graphics or better
Wireless network card	Card supporting wireless N	Card supporting wireless N
Virus protection	An up-to-date Antivirus client is required.  Windows Defender is included with Windows 10 at no additional cost.	Antivirus is not required.
Headset	Wired or wireless headset with microphone (or working laptop microphone)	Wired or wireless headset with microphone (or working laptop microphone)
Webcam	A webcam is required.	A webcam is required.
Additional requirements	Ontario Tech University projectors support VGA and HDMI only. If your machine does not have a supported display connector, you may be required to purchase an adapter. A machine with an Ethernet adapter is preferred. The machine should be capable of running Linux in a dual boot configuration.	Ontario Tech University projectors support VGA and HDMI only. If your machine does not have a supported display connector, you may be required to purchase an adapter. A machine with an Ethernet adapter is preferred. The machine should be capable of running Linux in a dual boot configuration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring a Macbook?
Yes, you are allowed to bring a Macbook. However, it must have Windows installed, as some Ontario Tech software is only compatible with Windows.