1. A Notebook Computer (required)

At Wooster, independent minds work together on and off campus, in and out of class. As our educational experience is not bounded by a classroom, or lab — or a computer lab for that matter, students rely on their notebook computers to review materials for class, do research, complete assignments, collect data in the lab, do in-class activities, peer review other students’ assignments, access and share collaborative works in progress, and connect with others around the country and world.

You will need a notebook computer that meets, at a minimum, the specifications listed here. Through IT’s software licensing agreement with Microsoft, you will have access to Office 365 for as long as you are enrolled at Wooster. All systems will need to have “anti-virus” software, too.

Our Recommendations

Minimum System Requirements
Operating System:	Microsoft Windows 10 or 11, Macintosh OSX 10.14 or higher
Minimum Hardware:	9th generation Intel i5 processor or faster or AMD equivalent, minimum 16GB RAM, 500Gb HDD. Solid state drive preferred. Intel wireless card preferred.
Anti-Virus Software:	Every student-owned computer must be running up-to-date anti-virus software in order to access the network.
Productivity Software:	Wooster students are now eligible for a free copy of Microsoft Office 365. Instructions downloading and installing the Office 365 Suite can be found here.

Warranties and Accidental Damage

We strongly recommend purchasing the maximum extended manufacturer’s warranty and the maximum extended accidental damage protection plan. Warranties are a good way to ensure the reliability of the computer throughout all four years at Wooster. Accidental damage protection covers drops and spills, which most standard warranties do not cover.

Hardware Repair Support

At the Help Desk located in Morgan Hall, staff members are available to provide hardware diagnosis student notebooks. Our Apple certified technicians can provide some on-site repair services.

A Word on Tablets & Chromebooks

You will see students, faculty, and staff using tablet devices around the campus. While tablets are often smaller, lighter, and run longer on a battery charge, few can run the software you are likely to need for your educational program at Wooster. If you have a tablet and wish to bring it, feel free to do so. We do not recommend that you plan to use a tablet or Chromebook in the place of a notebook computer.

Assistance

Students who need assistance with evaluating whether their notebook will meet the needs of their educational program at the College or in obtaining a device should contact Technology Services.

2. Software

Microsoft Office: Through IT’s software licensing agreement with Microsoft, you will have access to Office 365 Pro Plus for as long as you are enrolled at Wooster. There is no need to purchase the software. Students should download the full version of all software if possible but are free to use the web versions if they choose.

3. A Backup Device or Service

Our Recommendations

OneDrive

We recommend that you use OneDrive as the secure location for storing your work. The included Office 365 license provides 1 TB of storage. OneDrive files can be synchronized to your computer for easy access.

A Cell Phone

We recommend that all students have a cell phone capable of receiving voice calls and text messages. Students do not need “smart phones.” We recommend the cell phone so that you can receive campus alerts through our campus emergency notification system, and if necessary, professors and College staff can contact you. Cell phones, iPads or Android tablets will be needed to accomplish Multi-factor authentication.

4. Additional Accessories

We recommend that you bring a surge-protector power strip for your residence hall room. Consider bringing a cable lock for your laptop and taking advantage of the laptop engraving service offered by Wooster’s Security and Protective Services department once you’re on campus.

What you do not need

A Printer

A printer is not needed. Students have the ability to send print jobs to a number of printers across the campus. Students are provided with annual printing “allowances.”