Get Started – Technology Requirements | NC State Online and Distance Education

Technology Requirements

Having the right tools on hand will be a key factor to a successful Online and Distance Education experience. Below, we can help you determine if your current computer will get the job done; or if you’re looking to purchase a new computer, we have some recommended specifications.

Students use the technology at the Hunt Library.

Already Own a Computer?

A computer from home will be perfectly adequate if it can run current software and use the campus network. Using an older computer often allows a student to delay the purchase of a new one and better determine personal needs. However, depending on the situation, an older computer may not be usable for more than a year. Your current computer should meet or (preferably) exceed these minimum university requirements.

Less than two years old
Intel i3, i5 or i7 processor
4 GB of RAM
Operating System – MS Windows 7 or later; Mac OS Xv 10.11 or later
Battery life – 2 hours or longer
Ethernet Adapter – built in, Thunderbolt, or USB
Wireless – 802.11n
Free Hard Drive Space – 100GB

See NC State Antivirus Resources.

See Details

Purchasing a New Computer?

Depending on your computing needs, evaluating and purchasing a computer is very important. A computer with greater capability (processor speed, RAM, disk capacity) and expandability will be more likely to continue to run the software you require. For students purchasing a new computer, we recommend that you consider the following:

Compare machine types:
- Home use or consumer class
  Less expensive, may not hold up to rigorous academic use and transport
- Business class (recommended)
  More expensive but more durable, stable, standardized, and well-supported
- High-performance or gamer class
  More expensive, with bleeding-edge, sometimes poorly supported technology
Find out about any college or department requirement.
Read the Office of Information Technology recommendations for a new computer.
Read the Office of Information Technology recommendations for a laptop you already own.
See special pricing for students at NC State Bookstores Computers department.
Applicants for financial aid
- See Computer Purchase Request Form to include a computer in your financial aid request.