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Engineering Laptop Computer Requirement

NEW!
For Summer/Fall 2024 and Spring 2025 Entering Engineering Students

Update 9/13/2024: If you are looking to buy a computer for 2025-2026, the Specification will be updated in the March 2025 timeframe.

REQUIRED SPECIFICATIONS

OS: Windows 11 (64bit)
(MacOS and Chrome OS not supported)*
Processor: Intel 13th gen I5/i7 or Core Ultra 5/7 Series 1
or AMD Ryzen 5/7 7030/7040/8000 Series;
or higher
(Copilot+,SnapDragon,ARM Processors not recommended for this academic year)
Memory: 32 GB RAM
Storage (SSD) 500 GB Solid State Drive (SSD) or higher
Warranty: 4 Year w/accident protection
Graphics Card: Discrete/dedicated graphics card with 4GB Video RAM or higher (NVIDIA / AMD Only). Intel graphics explicitly do not meet requirement.
Video Conferencing Tools: Video Camera; Headset or Microphone/Speakers
Backup: 500 GB or higher Cloud backup service OR external SSD drive.

Non-Computer Science students should NOT bring Macs.

* Students intending to enter Computer Science may consider a MacBook. (Optional)  Please visit this page for details. 

Additional Considerations

  • Software: University Undergraduate bundle and Engineering Software Bundle.
  • Laptop/Tablet: Your Computer should be a laptop or 2-in-1 tablet meeting the above specifications.
  • Wireless: Wi-fi capable required
  • Backup: It is imperative that you back up your work. The university no longer provides unlimited storage to students. You must purchase a backup device or service.
  • 2-Factor Authentication Devices: All VT users will be asked for a secondary confirmation of their identity at log-in, using a device in their possession, such as a smartphone or security token. More information

Do you still have questions?

If you need more immediate assistance, please email our Instructional Technology Office or call 540-231-9076.

Appstream Virtual Machine Pilot

Interested in testing using a Virtual Machine through Amazon Appstream this Fall? Click here for more information.