Whether you're purchasing a new computer or bringing your current computer to campus, be sure it meets ODU's recommended specifications.
If you're looking to buy a Mac or PC, check out the Mobile Monarch student notebook program: The ODU Bookstore has a selection of recommended computers that meet or exceed our specifications, and they're available at special educational prices.
Either way, you want your computer to be portable and powerful enough to last your entire college career.
System Recommendations
| Recommended Specs (Typical User) | Recommended Specs (Power User)* | |
|---|---|---|
| Operating System | Latest version of Windows or macOS | Latest version of Windows or macOS |
| Processor | Windows: Latest generation Intel Core Processors (i5 or higher) Mac: M1 or higher |
Windows: Latest generation Intel Core Processors (i7 or higher) Mac: M1 or higher |
| RAM | 16GB DDR4 | 16GB to 32GB DDR4 |
| Video Card | Onboard graphics | Discrete/dedicated graphics card with 4 GB video RAM or higher (NVIDIA / AMD only) |
| Hard Drive | 500 GB SSD or higher | 500 GB SSD or higher |
| Wired Internet | For newer laptops, an adapter may be needed | |
| Wireless Internet | Wi-Fi capable |
* Recommendations for systems that will run Adobe Creative Suite applications, engineering programs, and other graphic/video intensive applications. The engineering program recommends PCs with an i7 or faster processor and a larger hard drive. Apple computers (MacBook, iMac, etc.) are not compatible with engineering software.
Software/Hardware Recommendations
Operating Systems
You'll find that all of our services are available on PC and Mac (with the exception of a very few pieces of specialized software). Just be sure that you're running the latest version of Windows 10 or macOS.
Microsoft Office
As a student at ODU, you can download and use the latest version of Microsoft Office for free. Go to odu.edu/office365 for more information.
Browsers
You can use any browser you like, but make sure you keep it updated to the latest version.
Test your bandwidth to see how your internet speeds stack up.
Anti-virus
Make sure you have an anti-virus program installed on your computer. Remember, anti-virus software is only effective if it is always running and up-to-date. Set your anti-virus to update daily so it has the latest virus definitions and can recognize new threats. (More info)