Computers at UVM

Access to a computer is critical for student success, both in and out of class. All UVM students are required to have a laptop that meets the minimum specifications outlined below.

Students who might have financial difficulty meeting their computing needs should email Student Financial Services or call 802-656-5700

An Important Note

Chromebooks, iPads, and Android Tablets are not capable of being used as your primary computing device. While these devices can be used in addition to a laptop computer, they do not have the features and software compatibility required for all academic coursework.

Student Laptop Requirement

Minimum hardware specs

  • A laptop capable of running the latest version of macOS or Windows
  • Intel® Core i5™ 11th-generation (2020-2021) quad-core processor, or an Apple M Series Processor[1][2]
  • 8 GB memory (RAM)
  • 256 GB Solid State Drive (SSD)
  • 1920 x 1080 Full HD Graphics (FHD) or better — strongly recommend avoiding anything less
  • 802.11n Wi-Fi adapter, either built-in or via a USB adapter (must be capable of operating in the 5 GHz band for residence halls)
  • Built-In or USB Webcam

Pleae note: a computer meeting the minimum specifications may not be sufficient for your entire academic career at UVM.

Recommended hardware specs

  • A laptop running the latest version of macOS or Windows
  • Intel® Core™ i7 13th-generation (2023) or 12th-generation (2022) quad-core processor, or an Apple M Series Processor[1][2]
  • 16 GB memory (RAM)
  • 512 GB Solid State Drive (SSD) or larger
  • 1920 x 1080 Full HD Graphics (FHD) or better
  • 802.11ac Wi-Fi adapter or better
  • Built-In or USB HD Webcam (≥720p)
  1. Intel-only applications require Rosetta 2, which will be installed automatically. Please check with your school for any specialized software needed.

  2. PC (x86) Emulation is not yet fully supported. GSB supports only Intel-based PCs (see notes below under additional recommended specifications accordion.) CEMS supports their Virtual Votey VDI environment.

Optional features and add-ons

  • Ethernet port or plug-in adapter (Wi-Fi may not be available in all areas) and an Ethernet cable of at least 25 feet (7.62 m) for use in residence halls.
  • Set up OneDrive for backing up data. See Backup and File Storage below.
  • For presentations and other academic needs, you may need a suitable plug-in video adapter (e.g., USB-C to HDMI). The UVM Techstore carries several popular types of adapter cables.
  • A laptop power bank for use during long classes.

The following schools and colleges (CESS, CEMS, & GSB) have additional recommended specifications.

Buying a computer? Need a backup drive or computer accessory? Visit the UVM Techstore!

UVM's Techstore in the Bookstore is an authorized sales provider of popular Apple and Dell computers and accessories. Take advantage of Back-To-School savings and educational discounts not available anywhere else!

Need to get software support or repair of your Apple or Dell computer? Visit the Carry-In Clinic!

UVM Client Services Hardware Team is an authorized service provider of Apple computers and select Dell computers.

See the Help & Support page for details.

Find a Computer Lab

See Computer Labs > Other Labs.

Networking at UVM

Wired

UVM has wired Ethernet connections in all residence hall rooms on a "port-per-pillow" basis, which guarantees one port per student per room (students in rooms with limited wall jacks may pick up a mini-hub from their residence hall's Main Desk after move-in day). Computers plugged into residence hall networks will need to perform a UVM Network Registration once per semester.

Wired ports can also be found in various study spots in the Dudley H. Davis Student Center, the Howe Library, and some classrooms.

Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi is available throughout campus, including in residence halls and certain academic buildings. Learn more about Wi-Fi network connections at UVM (SC).

Connect to UVM Wireless Guide (KB)

IoT Devices - Smart speakers, lights, casting devices, media consoles, and more

For information on devices that are compatible/incompatible with the UVM network, see the Network compatibility for Media Streaming, Game Consoles, and Smart Devices UVM Knowledge Base guide.

Preparing Your Computer for the UVM Network

If you bring a computer with you...

You can avoid many potential problems by purchasing a computer through the UVM Bookstore's Techstore since we can best help you with a computer configured for UVM that we are certified to repair. If you do bring a computer with you, please see the recommended specifications above.

Prepare your computer for the campus network before you arrive:

  1. Install all security updates for your operating system.
  2. Set your computer to install updates automatically.
  3. Be sure all accounts on your computer, especially Administrator and ones with administrative privileges, have good passwords. See Protecting Your NetID for guidelines that can be applied to any password.
  4. Set your Web browser's home page to "myuvm.uvm.edu" or "www.uvm.edu".
  5. Download and install supported software at UVM's Software Download Portal.

After you arrive on campus

Configure and test your Wi-Fi hardware, using the UVM Wi-Fi Connection guide.

Backup & File Storage

Secure storage and backup for your important work

With your NetID and password, you can access your private, secure storage space on OneDrive. You can access your files from anywhere in the world, and they are secure and private unless you make them public.

Please refer to the various OneDrive Knowledge Base articles for helpful information about OneDrive and how it can be used at UVM.

Web Publishing and Blogging

With your UVM NetID and password, you can access your personal webspace at UVM or make your own UVM Blog!

Learn more about web publishing at UVM.

Using UVM Email

Why use UVM Email?

Even if you already have an email address, you will need to use your UVM account. You will receive official UVM communication through your UVM email account, so be sure to check it regularly!

Learn more about using email at UVM.

NetID and Email

Your UVM email address is tied to your UVM NetID. You will also need your NetID for access to many other resources at UVM. You can activate your NetID as soon as you've been accepted to UVM.

Learn more about your NetID at UVM.