Required Hardware

Welcome to the Faculty of Computer Science!

You can complete all of the programming-based courses in our program by using our in-person lab facilities. However, we offer a number of ways for you to access the software required to complete the programming-based courses either locally or remotely. You can find out more information about the methods of accessing this software below:

This page will cover some of the things you should consider before purchasing a machine to support your Computer Science studies.

General Considerations

Before we get into the specifics of each hardware platform, you should consider the comfort and ergonomics of the machine you will be using. You will be spending a lot of time in front of this hardware reading and programming, so it is best to setup a configuration that reduces eye strain and fatigue. Here are a few suggestions that may help:

• If you are looking to bring a portable device to school with you, then we recommend getting a laptop over a tablet, iPad, or Chromebook. Laptops have larger keyboards and more functionality than other portable options.
• If you are purchasing a laptop, you may consider a larger second monitor for use at home. The larger the display the less eye strain you will feel when using them for long periods of time.
• Another thing to consider, if purchasing a portable device, is the system’s weight as you will be carrying it to and from the school.

Ok, with those things in mind, let’s look at what you can expect from the various hardware platforms available to you.

Tablets, iPads, and Chromebooks

These devices will be able to complete most of the programming courses in the Computer Science program by using the remote labs or SSH. None of these devices will be able to run the software or VMs locally as they are not designed for this purpose.

Keep in mind that the more powerful versions of these devices will offer you a better experience. If you are considering purchasing one of these, make sure that you are getting a unit no more than one generation old. This way you are sure to have an up-to-date device for most of your time with us.

Mac M1s and Other ARM64 Based Computers

M1 Macs and other ARM64 based machines will be able to complete most of the programming courses in the Computer Science program by using the remote labs or SSH. Some of the software, such as Java, is available for local install, but these machines will not be able to effectively run the VMs and most of the software used by our program.

Minimum Requirements:

• 16GB RAM

Intel, AMD, and Other x64 Based Computers

The labs, virtual machines, and software used in our program are built around this architecture. Machines using these processors will be the most compatible with our program. If you want to be able to use nearly all the software and VMs at home, then the following specifications are recommended.

Minimum Requirements:

• 16GB RAM
• Intel i5/AMD Ryzen 5 or greater CPU
• 512 GB hard drive space or greater