Body
Computer Requirements
The Office of Information Technology does not make any specific recommendations regarding your choice of Mac or PC computers. Depending on the software required for some courses, Mac users should be prepared to purchase a Parallels Desktop subscription, as well as a Windows license to run a Windows operating system and its applications. In general, when buying a computer, we recommend you purchase hardware that supports the latest operating systems and includes the fastest processor speed and as much memory as your budget will allow. Choose carefully since your laptop will most likely be your primary device during your time as a Florida Tech student.
Engineering students are recommended to purchase a computer capable of running software such as MATLAB and AutoCAD. Always check the software vendor’s recommended computer specifications.
IT does NOT recommend the use of mobile devices such as Android or iPhones, iPads or other tablets, or Chromebooks for taking or teaching classes. They have limited functionality and may not allow you to install or use tools required for some classes. They are, however, good secondary devices for note taking, email, or other simple tasks.
IT strongly recommends laptop computers that run Windows operating system. Laptops provide the maximum flexibility to work anywhere on campus. Please take into consideration the laptop size and weight.
| Name |
Minimum Requirements |
Recommended Requirements |
| Operating System |
Windows 10 or higher, Mac OS 11 (BigSur) |
Windows 11 or higher, Mac OS 13 (Ventura) or higher |
| Processor |
Intel Core i5, AMD Ryzen 5, Apple M1 |
Intel Core i7, AMD Ryzen 7, Apple M1 Pro |
| Memory |
8 GB |
16 GB or more |
| Display |
13” or larger |
15” or larger |
| Video Card |
Integrated Graphics |
2 GB video card
Dedicated video memory rather than integrated is recommended for engineering students |
| Hard Drive |
256 GB |
500 GB or more |
| Sound |
Any type with audio input, as a microphone may be required for video conferencing, chat applications, and academic instruction |
Any type with audio input, as a microphone may be required for video conferencing, chat applications, and academic instruction |
| Network Hardware |
Wireless (WiFi 802.11x)
Florida Tech uses eduroam for campus wireless network, see more at eduroam |
Wireless (WiFi 802.11x)
Florida Tech uses eduroam for campus wireless network, see more at eduroam |
| Internet Connection |
High-speed Internet capable of streaming video smoothly |
High-speed Internet capable of streaming video smoothly |
| Anti-virus |
Microsoft Windows Defender for Windows
Malwarebytes and Avast are available at no cost for Windows/Mac
|
Microsoft Windows Defender for Windows
Malwarebytes and Avast are available at no cost for Windows/Mac |
| Web Camera |
Built-in webcam |
Built-in webcam |
| Battery |
2-3 hr minimum |
2-3 hr minimum |
| Warranty |
3 year warranty |
4 year warranty with accidental coverage |
NOTE: M1 Macs are indeed fast but will NOT run Windows via bootcamp. There are ways to virtualize Windows under Apple SoC. Florida Tech Information Technology does not provide support to personal computers. The use of Mac computers in art-related professions is rooted in the culture. Generally, for a lower price, a student can purchase a Windows-based computer with similar or more powerful specifications (Adobe Creative Cloud is cross-platform). Check with the software vendors for product compatibility.
The Technology Support Center's main purpose is to support university-owned computer systems. We also ensure that personally-owned systems are able to access the campus network and provide limited support for personal systems. See Personally-Owned Computer Support Policy
Student Discounts
Students can take advantage of these discounts by purchasing through the vendors’ online education stores:
Florida Tech does not endorse any specific vendor but will post information regarding companies meeting its technical specifications at discount prices.
IT does not provide support for student computers.
Minimum Software Requirements
| Software |
Description |
| Office Suite |
Microsoft Office 365 is available free for all enrolled Florida Tech students. Please visit Install Office 365 on my device for more information |
| Mail Client |
Students are required to have and regular check their @my.fit.edu email address. All official university communication with a student is sent to this email address. |
| Web Browser |
We recommend having more than one web browser available on your computer.
If you are using a PC, consider using the latest version of:
If you are using a Mac, consider using the latest version of:
Visit Supported Web Browsers for more information.
|
Canvas
Canvas is the university's primary Learning Management System.
View the minimum requirements to take any courses in Canvas. For most programs, we highly recommend that your computer be no more than 3 years old to properly run course specific software.
Zoom
Faculty can require students to join meetings using their TRACKS credentials. Follow the Zoom system requirements link to view the minimum requirements.