Issue/Question
- What are the hardware and software requirements for CN service?
Environment
- Oregon State University
- Community Network (CN)
Explanation
Computers must meet the minimum hardware and software requirements below to be eligible for CN service. This helps ensure that systems meet the demands of current and future technologies.
These requirements apply to most desktop and laptop computers. Special considerations can be made for mobile devices, such as tablets, netbooks, ultrabooks, etc. Please contact the IS Service Desk if you have questions.
PC Requirements
| Hardware |
Minimum for Existing Systems+ |
Minimum Recommended for New Purchases++ |
| CPU |
Intel Core Duo Series |
Intel Core i Series (i5 and up) |
| Memory |
2 GB |
8 GB |
| Hard Drive |
80 GB |
320 GB |
| |
| Software |
| Operating System |
Windows 10 Enterprise* |
Windows 10 Enterprise* |
| Productivity Suite |
Office 2016* |
Office 2016* |
Macintosh Requirements
| Hardware |
Minimum for Existing Systems+ |
Minimum Recommended for New Purchases++ |
| CPU |
Intel Core Duo Series |
Intel Core i Series (i5 and up) |
| Memory |
2 GB |
8 GB |
| Hard Drive |
80 GB |
128 GB Flash |
| |
| Software |
| Operating System |
Mac OS X 10.13 or higher** |
Mac OS X 10.14 or higher** |
| Productivity Suite |
Microsoft Office 2016 |
Microsoft Office 2019 |
+Computers equivalent to the minimum specifications for existing systems are generally 5-7 years old and barely adequate to run current Operating Systems. They will be slow compared to newer computers and are prone to hardware failure due to long-term use. Computers with operating systems that are no longer supported, and for which updates and security patches are no longer distributed by Microsoft or Apple, will not be allowed on the network per OSU's Information Security policies.
++New computers that meet the Minimum Recommended for New Purchases have enough memory and capacity for today's enhanced operating systems and can be expected to have a useful service life of at least 4 years.
*Upgrade licenses for the current version and preceding version of Microsoft Windows and Microsoft Office are licensed by the University under the Microsoft Campus Agreement. New computer purchases must include a Windows license to qualify for operating system upgrades under the campus agreement.
**Apple generally provides updates and patches for the current Mac OS and two prior versions. We will strive to support the prior operating systems until Apple no longer provides updates and security patches.
For assistance, contact the IS Service Desk.