Computer Replacement
Check out our step-by-step guide through the computer replacement process.
Requirements and options
Available brands
Northwestern IT offers support for Apple, Dell, and Lenovo computers. Please review the standard configurations available through the iBuyNU Marketplace. Please punch out to the respective vendor (Apple, Dell, or CDWG for Lenovo) and choose from the standard configurations a machine that meets the minimum specifications listed below. If you would like assistance in choosing a model, please contact Northwestern IT Support.
Standard models
- For Apple, please select a MacBook Pro, MacBook Air, or iMac.
- For Dell, after punching out to Dell, please click standard configurations and then click filter to select Weinberg College of Arts and Sciences. Recommended computers include Dell Latitude, XPS, and OptiPlex computers.
- For Lenovo, login into iBuyNU, punch out to CDWG, and then click on "Lenovo Computer Pricing" to see the recommended standards. Recommended computers include Lenovo Thinkpads and ThinkCentre
Operating systems
- For Windows computers: Windows 10 Enterprise
- For Mac computers: Mac OS X 11
Minimum requirements
- RAM: 16 GB
- Storage: 512 GB solid-state drive
- Warranty: Required 3-year parts and labor warranty (from purchase date)
Storage Recommendations
- Northwestern IT strongly recommends that new laptops and desktops include solid state drives. Solid state drives improve performance significantly and increase the lifespan of devices.
Purchasing
- Note: Do not purchase Microsoft Office with a new computer. Northwestern maintains a Microsoft Office license agreement for all faculty/staff of the University, and the software is included in the Northwestern IT Software Image
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