At Wooster, independent minds work together on and off campus, in and out of class. Your education is not bounded by a classroom or a computer lab, so you will rely on your own notebook computer to review course materials, do research, complete and peer-review assignments, collect data in the lab, and stay connected with people across the country and the world.

This guide covers what you need, what we recommend, and what you can leave at home.

A Notebook Computer (required)

You will need a notebook computer that meets at least the specifications below. Through the College’s licensing agreement with Microsoft, you will have access to Microsoft 365 for as long as you are enrolled, and every student computer must run up-to-date antivirus software to connect to the campus network.

Minimum System Requirements

Operating System	Windows 11 or higher, or a currently supported version of macOS (Sequoia 15 or higher). Buying new is fine; recent Macs ship with a newer version and are fully supported.
Processor (CPU)	Intel Core i5 / Ultra 5, AMD Ryzen 5, or Apple M2 / M4.
Memory (RAM)	16 GB. This is the sweet spot for juggling browser tabs, PDFs, and video calls at once.
Storage	512 GB solid-state drive (SSD). Avoid 256 GB if you plan to keep research files or media over four years.
Battery Life	6 to 8 hours of real-world battery, so you are not tied to an outlet all day.
Connectivity	Built-in webcam, microphone, and Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) for reliable campus internet.
Antivirus	Every student computer must run up-to-date antivirus software to access the campus network. See Protect Your Computer for what qualifies and how to set it up.
Productivity Software	Microsoft 365 is free for enrolled students. See Installing Microsoft 365 for download and setup.

Warranties and Accidental Damage

We strongly recommend the longest manufacturer’s warranty and the maximum accidental damage protection plan you can get. A warranty protects reliability across four years, and accidental damage protection covers drops and spills that standard warranties usually do not.

Hardware Repair and Support

The Help Desk, on the 4th floor of Morgan Hall, can diagnose hardware, troubleshoot software and connection issues, and help you set up Wooster’s services on your Mac or Windows notebook.

A Word on Tablets & Chromebooks

You will see tablets around campus, and they are lighter and last longer on a charge. However, few can run the software your coursework is likely to need. If you already have a tablet or Chromebook, bring it if you like, but we cannot guarantee you will be able to connect to our Network.

Getting Help Choosing

If you are not sure whether a computer will meet the needs of your program, or you need help obtaining a device, contact Technology Services before you buy.

Software

Through the College’s agreement with Microsoft, you have access to Microsoft 365 for as long as you are enrolled. There is no need to buy it. Install the full desktop apps or use the web versions if you prefer.

Backup Device or Service

OneDrive

Use OneDrive as the secure home for your work. Your Microsoft 365 license includes 1 TB of storage, and OneDrive files sync to your computer for easy access. Saving to OneDrive means a lost or dead laptop during finals is not a lost semester.

Cell Phone

We recommend every student have a cell phone that can take calls, receive texts, and reach the internet. You will need a phone or tablet to complete multi-factor authentication when you sign in, and a phone lets you receive campus emergency alerts and be reached by professors and staff.

Additional Accessories

• A surge-protector power strip for your residence hall room.
• Consider the free laptop engraving service offered by Campus Safety once you are on campus. It helps recover a lost or stolen device.

What You Do Not Need

Printer

You do not need to bring a printer. You can send print jobs to printers across campus, and every student gets an annual printing allowance. See Printing as a Student to get set up.

Personal Network Equipment

Please leave these at home. They broadcast on the same frequencies as campus Wi-Fi and slow the network down for you and everyone near you:

• Personal routers, mesh Wi-Fi systems, and range extenders
• Mobile hotspots and MiFi devices
• Wireless printers. If you bring a printer anyway, connect it to your laptop with a USB cable instead of Wi-Fi

Getting Help

If you have questions about choosing or setting up your technology, contact the IT Help Desk.

• Email: helpdesk@wooster.edu
• Phone: 330-287-4357 (330-287-HELP)
• Walk-in: Burton D. Morgan Hall – Help Desk, 4th floor
• Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 am to 5:30 pm