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Computer Requirements

Older Computer Recommendations

ALL departments require students to have a computer with minimum specifications. Computers that do not meet minimum specifications may prevent students from completing course assignments.

NOTE: All students should have a full computer, at least an older computer, available for coursework at the beginning of their first year. Using a phone only will not work for courses.

ALL departments require students to have a computer with minimum specifications. Computers that do not meet minimum specifications may prevent students from completing course assignments. 

Please read this page AND the general information before spending money on computer hardware and software.

EACH DEPARTMENT HAS DIFFERENT REQUIREMENTS!

This chart provides minimum recommendations for students bringing older computers to campus.

Please read the College’s Student Computing Requirements General Information page for general information before spending money on computer hardware or software.

Depending on your needs, you should expect an older computer to be useful for no more than a year. If you plan to bring an older computer to campus, it should meet, or preferably, exceed these minimum recommendations. Contact your department office for specific hardware and software requirements for coursework.

ComponentsWindows Desktop or LaptopMacintosh Desktop or Laptop
CPU (Processor) or ModelMinimum: Any model using Intel Core i5 or later processorsMinimum: Any Intel processor iMac, Mac Mini, Mac Pro or MacBook Pro
System RAM8 GB minimum, more preferredSame as PC
Hard Drive (Storage)512 GB SSD minimum, more preferred (multiple drives are fine)Same as PC
Monitor/Display14″ or larger (second external monitor optional)Same as PC
Graphics Processor Unit (GPU) Should have a discrete GPU.2 GB VRAM or moreSame as PC
Operating SystemWindows 10 or later.Mac OS 12.0 (Monterey) or later
AudioStandard on most PCsStandard on most computers
Network AdaptersWi-Fi card or adapterSame as PC
BackupExternal Drive – Windows Backup (external drive needs to be at least twice the computer’s storage capacity)
Cloud Backup Services – Google One (Only Non-NCSU Google Accounts), iCloud, or another backup service
External Drive – Time Machine (external drive needs to be at least twice the computer’s storage capacity)
Cloud Backup Services – Google One (Only Non-NCSU Google Accounts), iCloud, or another backup service
Warranty ServiceMinimum 3-year onsite parts and labor (OK if warranty has expired)Same as PC
Software
Be sure to check for educational discounts through the College of Design or Wolfpack Outfitters.

Many Autodesk products are available free through Autodesk’s Education Community.

Additional software may be required for certain courses. Additional software may be required for certain courses.
• Microsoft Office 365 (free to NCSU students)

 Adobe Creative Cloud
Same as PC

Questions?

The College’s Information Technology staff will be glad to go over purchase choices or answer any related questions. You can send an email to design_help@ncsu.edu or use this form to contact the College Information Technology staff with specific information about your problem.