Recommended Computer Specifications

Windows 11 devices are strongly recommended. Windows 10 will no longer receive support (security updates) after October 2025. Avoid Macs and Chromebooks. Avoid Microsoft Surface devices which use Snapdragon CPUs (introduced in 2024 and currently called New Surface Pro or New Surface Laptop on the Microsoft website).

Hardware Minimum
CPU  Intel Core i5 OR AMD Ryzen 5 (avoid Celeron)
Number of CPU Cores  4
Number of CPU Threads Any
OS Win 10 (Windows 11 recommended)
Memory 16GB
Storage 512 GB SSD
Display** HD, FHD*
Video/Graphics Integrated Graphics
Wireless: 802.11 g, n, ac, ax, be, bn or newer**
Internet 5.0 Mbps (download and upload speed)
HD Camera built-in or USB connected device
Speakerphone built-in or USB connected device
Microphone built-in or USB connected device


Dell, Lenovo and Apple have established a pricing agreement that provides LSU faculty, staff and students with the ability to purchase computers at reduced cost. Visit Tigerware (http://tigerware.lsu.edu) and look for the “Hardware Purchasing” link on the left side bar for more info.

*Display size is up to user preference. Resolution near or greater than 1920x1080 (FHD) is recommended

**Old devices with only 802.11, 802.11a and 802.11b cannot connect to LSU WiFi

 

Hardware Useful Upgrades
CPU intel i7+, AMD Ryzen 7+
CPU Cores 8+
Memory greater than 16GB
Drive 1 TB SSD
Display FHD, UHD, UHD+, QHD, QHD+
Video/Graphics 2GB+ discrete GPU (nVidia or AMD/Radeon)
Internet 50+ Mbps download and 10+ Mbps upload
Dock for Home Use USB dock with monitor and full sized keyboard / mouse

Software

LSU provides several software titles for students free of charge, and some are available with discounts. You can check Tigerware (http://tigerware.lsu.edu) for more information.