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    Laptop Requirements

    Laptop requirements vary by program to support the best learning experience.

    Laptop Specifications for Computer Science:

    Operating System
    Windows, Linux, and Mac laptops are recommended.
    Processor
    MINIMUM (WINDOWS/LINUX): Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5
    System Memory
    MINIMUM: 16 GB
    RECOMMENDED: More than 16 GB is preferable
    Storage
    MINIMUM: 500 GB
    RECOMMENDED: 1 TB+ (SSD drives are preferable, particularly M.2 NVMe)
    Graphics Video
    If you plan to explore areas such as AI, machine learning, or computer graphics (including gaming or development), an NVIDIA GPU with CUDA support is recommended
    Screen Size
    15" or larger screens are recommended for a more comfortable coding and multitasking experience

    Important Notes:

    Chromebooks, netbooks, and similar low-cost devices do not meet the performance and compatibility needs of most Computer Science courses. These systems often lack sufficient processing power, memory, and storage, and may not support required software. Additionally, some Microsoft Surface devices have shown compatibility limitations with certain applications.

    Laptop Specifications for Cybersecurity:

    Operating System
    Windows or Mac operating system
    System Memory
    MINIMUM: 32 GB
    STRONGLY RECOMMENDED: 64 GB
    Solid State Hard Drive
    MINIMUM: 250 GB
    RECOMMENDED: 1 TB (for at least an i7 class processor)
    Screen Size
    15”
    Hardware Quality
    High-quality hardware is recommended
    Audio Card
    No specifications
    Video / Graphics
    No specifications
    Software
    Microsoft Office: Office 365 is free for students.
    VMWare Virtualization Platform: SUNY Poly has a VMWare site license available to students that includes VMWare Workstation for Windows and Fusion for Mac. For virtualization needs prior to arriving at SUNY Poly, students can install and use VirtualBox.

    Important Notes:

    • Wi-Fi wireless networking is required.
    • USB ports are required (can be provided via external adaptor if needed). Ethernet ports are not required, but access via an external adaptor is recommended.
    • If an Apple laptop is used, the Parallels software to run Windows is available at a discount, and a Windows license will be available to students through SUNY Poly’s site licenses.

    Majors in Engineering include:

    • Civil Engineering
    • Civil Engineering (BS/MS)
    • Electrical & Computer Engineering
    • Mechanical Engineering

    Minimum PC Specifications:

    Computer
    PC (Apple/Mac is not recommended)
    O/S
    Windows 11
    Processor
    Intel Core i7 (higher speed is better but cost varies with speed)
    System Memory
    MINIMUM: 16 GB
    PREFERRED: 32 GB
    Drive
    1 Terabyte SSD Drive
    Graphics Video
    Nvidia GeForce RTX 3060 or 3070 or AMD Radeon RX6700XT or 6800 or equivalent graphics capability
    USB
    3.0

    Important Notes:

    Macintosh computers are not recommended as they have been shown to be incompatible with some software used in our educational programs.

    Majors in Engineering Technology include:

    • Civil Engineering Technology
    • Computer Engineering Technology
    • Electrical Engineering Technology
    • Mechanical Engineering Technology

    Minimum PC Specifications:

    Computer
    PC (Apple/Mac is not recommended)
    O/S
    Windows 11
    Processor
    MINIMUM: Intel Core i7 (11th Gen or newer)
    PREFERRED: Intel Core i9 or AMD Ryzen 9 for performance-intensive tasks
    System Memory
    MINIMUM: 16 GB
    PREFERRED: 32 GB
    Drive
    1 Terabyte SSD Drive
    Graphics Video
    RECOMMENDED (FOR STUDENT USE): NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 / 3070, AMD Radeon RX 6700 XT / 6800
    PREFERRED (ISV-CERTIFIED FOR PRO SOFTWARE): NVIDIA Quadro series (e.g., T1000, RTX A2000 or higher), AMD Radeon Pro series
    USB
    3.0

    Important Notes:

    • Some engineering software requires local installation. Cloud-based or ARM-based laptops (e.g., Windows on ARM) are not recommended due to software compatibility issues.
    • Macintosh computers are not recommended as they have been shown to be incompatible with some software used in our educational programs.

    Requirements for Other Majors

    Students enrolled in majors not listed above are encouraged to consider the following general computer requirements when purchasing a laptop to attend SUNY Poly:

    • Windows 11 or Apple Computer
    • Intel Core i5 Processor
    • 12 GB Memory
    • 500GB or better Hard Drive
    • Standard Video / Graphics

    Have questions?

    If you have any questions about the laptop requirements for your major, please contact the College of Engineering at (315) 792-7234 or CENG@sunypoly.edu.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Because this is an academic requirement, it may be possible to receive financial aid to cover the cost of the laptop, primarily through additional loans.

    Please contact the Financial Aid Office to discuss your individual financial situation. You can email finaid@sunypoly.edu, call (315) 792-7210, or request a virtual appointment.

    Students NOT in Applied Computing, Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Engineering, or Engineering Technology programs should consider:

    • Windows 11 or Apple Computer
    • Intel Core i5 Processor
    • 12 GB Memory
    • 500GB or better hard drive
    • Standard video/graphics

    Laptops are available on a semester basis for eligible students while supplies last. Contact studentaffairs@sunypoly.edu for an application. Approved students will schedule a pickup time.

    Note: Financial aid may also cover laptop costs for programs requiring specific specs.

    If your laptop does not meet the minimum specs, you may need to upgrade it in the future.

    You can find free or discounted software/hardware options on our student software and hardware webpage.