Student Guide to Purchasing a Computer
We strongly recommend that you bring your own laptop to help ensure your success as a Wellesley student. Most courses will require daily online access to course resources in Sakai, Google, and other online systems.
Recommended Specifications:
- Windows 10/11 64-bit, or macOS 14 (Sonoma)
- 8 GB or more of RAM.
- Intel Core i5 or i7 processor, or Apple M2 or higher processor.
- 500GB or larger hard drive, or 256GB or larger SSD.
- Wireless (WiFi), 802.11ac, dual band (2.4Ghz & 5Ghz).
- A backup solution for your personal data.
- An external hard drive for a complete backup of your computer that is at least twice the size of your computer’s internal drive, to be used with programs such as Time Machine on macOS.
- Or a subscription to an online cloud backup service, such as iCloud or Backblaze.
- Your Wellesley College Google Drive account can be used to store important files such as documents, photos, and videos, but it is not a replacement for a complete backup solution.
- Four year warranty that covers both manufacturer and accidental damage.
What to bring with your computer:
- All documentation and software license information for your computer.
- Case or sleeve to protect your laptop.
- Surge protector.
What NOT to bring:
- Internet of Things (IoT) devices, such as video & audio streaming boxes and remote-controlled lights, may not fully work on our campus WiFi network.
- Wireless printers and wireless routers will not work with our WiFi network.
- 24/7 printing is available in the Bates, Munger, Shafer, Stone-Davis, and Tower Residence Halls, and printers are also available in Clapp Library, the Science Center, and Pendleton Hall.
- If you want to bring a personal printer, you will need to connect it to your computer with a USB cable.
Get connected with more campus technology resources
- Visit the Entering Students website on campus technology for tips on getting connected on campus.
- Visit our Computer Purchases website for discounts on software, computers, and accessories.
- The Wellesley College Bookstore sells computer accessories.
Where can I ask questions about campus technology?
- E-mail your questions to helpdesk@wellesley.edu
- Call the Computing Help Desk at (781) 283-7777, Monday - Friday 8:30am - 4:30pm.
- For more information, search the Wellesley website for “technology orientation”