UNW Computer Requirements
Northwestern’s minimum computer recommendations are intended to ensure that the laptop you purchase will meet the requirements for the coursework in your academic program throughout your university career. Below are recommendations and minimum requirements for Windows and Mac laptops. You may wish to contact your Faculty Advisor for any course or major specific recommendations they may have for their students.
Some Northwestern websites and services are primarily designed to work with Windows; most will work on macOS and Safari, but we are aware that you may occasionally encounter compatibility issues when using macOS. Other operating systems are not recommended for use at Northwestern outside of macOS and Windows due to incompatibility reasons.
Department Specific Computer Requirements
Certain majors will require different computer requirements. Click the link below to learn about department specific requirements:
Windows Hardware Recommendations
Most laptops purchased in the last four years should meet these requirements:
CPU:
Minimum: Intel Core i3
Recommended: i5, i7 or AMD equivalent
Memory:
Minimum: 8GB
Recommended: 16GB+
Internal Storage:
Minimum: 256GB SSD (solid state drive)
Recommended: 512GB+
Warranty: Each student is strongly encouraged to have an extended warranty to cover the life of their laptop (3-4 years). This will help prevent unplanned costs and downtime for the student, or parents, in the event of a hardware malfunction or failure.
Other Recommendations
Network Cable: We recommend students bring their own 14-foot or longer CAT-6 ethernet network cable (May need to purchase additional ethernet adapter depending on the laptop model)
Windows Software Requirements
Operating System: Windows 10 or 11
Antivirus: Northwestern requires that all students have an Antivirus Program installed on their computer with up-to-date virus definitions before they are allowed to access on the network. Windows Defender is free and already installed on all Windows based computers.
Office Suite: All UNW students have free access to Office 365 for their computer and mobile devices upon enrollment and can obtain the latest version of Microsoft Office Suite here.
Mac Hardware Recommendations
Most Mac laptops purchased in the last four years will meet the minimum requirements:
CPU:
Minimum: Any M series chip
Recommended: M3 or M4
Memory:
Minimum: 8GB
Recommended: 16GB+
Internal Storage:
Minimum: 256GB SSD (solid state drive)
Recommended: 512GB+
Warranty: Each student is strongly encouraged to purchase AppleCare for their laptop (3 years). This will help prevent unplanned costs and downtime for the student, or parents, in the event of a hardware malfunction or failure.
Other Recommendations
Network Cable: We recommend students bring their own 14-foot or longer CAT-6 ethernet network cable (May need to purchase additional ethernet adapter depending on the laptop model)
USB-C Hub: Network adapter, extra USB ports, etc.
Mac Software Requirements
Operating System: macOS 13 (Ventura) or higher
Antivirus: Northwestern requires that all students have an Antivirus Program installed on their computer with up-to-date virus definitions before they are allowed to access on the network.
Office Suite: All UNW students have free access to Office 365 for their computer and mobile devices upon enrollment and can obtain the latest version of Microsoft Office Suite here.
Netbooks and Chromebooks
Netbooks or Chromebooks may be a desirable alternative to a laptop and are usually acceptable provided the netbook closely matches the recommendations listed above. However, they will not meet your needs as a student or course-work requirements for your area of study. You may wish to contact your Academic Advisor for specific recommendations they may have.
Tablets
A tablet can be a great companion tool for use at Northwestern; most major brand Android, Apple, and Windows Mobile tablets can be registered on the Northwestern wireless network. However, some tablets are not compatible with all campus websites and services and may not meet all your needs as a student. A tablet is not recommended as a standalone substitute in place of a laptop at this time.