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IT Requirements


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IT Requirements

As you embark on your academic journey at the University of Sunderland, having the right tools can make a significant difference in your learning experience. One of these essential tools is your laptop.

Here we provide you with detailed information about the minimum laptop requirements you should consider to ensure a smooth and efficient study experience.

General Laptop Requirements

For most students, the following laptop specifications should provide a good baseline:

  • Operating System: We recommend Windows 11 due to its wide compatibility with educational software. However, if you prefer another operating system, please ensure that it can run all the necessary software for your course.
  • Processor: An Intel Core i3 processor or equivalent is the minimum requirement. This level of processor is capable of handling typical computing tasks such as browsing the internet, word processing, and basic data analysis.
  • Memory: 8GB of RAM is the minimum recommended. Adequate RAM is crucial for multitasking and running complex applications smoothly.
  • Storage: A 256GB Solid State Drive (SSD) is recommended. SSDs are faster and more reliable than traditional hard drives, which can significantly improve your laptop’s performance.

Specialist Software Requirements

For students enrolled in the following schools, more or different specifications may be required due to the use of specialist software:

  • School of Art and Design
  • School of Computer Science
  • School of Engineering

If you are a student in one of these schools, please contact your programme leader for more detailed guidance. Your Programme Leader details can be found within the Program tab on Compass.

Your Programme Leader can provide you with information about any added hardware or software requirements specific to your course. You can also see the list of approved software on our Software Download Portal

Laptop Borrowing and Assistance

If you do not have a laptop that meets these requirements, don’t worry! The University of Sunderland provides resources to help.

The university library offers laptops for borrowing. This can be a great choice if you’re in need of a laptop for a short period of time. You can use the lapsafes located in different buildings on the University campus. One Lapsafe is in The Gateway building, One in the Library at David Goldman, two in Murray Library, one in Pasteur, two in St Peters Library and one in Wearside view.

BORROW A LAPTOP

Additional Considerations

While the above are minimum requirements, you may want to consider investing in a laptop with higher specifications if your budget allows. A more powerful laptop could provide a smoother and more responsive experience, especially when running demanding applications.

Remember, the right laptop can significantly enhance your learning experience, so it’s worth taking the time to choose one that fits your needs.