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Baldwin Wallace University

IT Support

What type of computer should I bring to campus?

  • Updated

We are excited that you’ve chosen Baldwin Wallace University and look forward to welcoming you as a Yellow Jacket this fall! As you begin thinking about starting classes, we want to recommend some devices and software you'll need, plus let you know about some free software and tech resources from Baldwin Wallace.

Bring Your Own Device (BYOD)

All BW students are required to have a laptop or tablet computer.  Some academic disciplines have a device preference. The School of Business prefers Windows computers, while Art and the Conservatory prefer Macs.  Some majors, such as Physics or Computer Science, may require students to have computers with high-end graphics to run simulations.  The School of Education requires an iPad and a laptop computer for undergraduate students. Please reach out to the department of your intended major with any questions. 

IMPORTANT: iPads or Chromebooks are insufficient and do not meet the minimum specifications. They can access the BW Virtual Desktop, but will not connect to all the BW software.

What to bring to campus

Before you decide what device to bring with you to BW, look at our device recommendations and specific requirements for certain majors.

Minimum Computer Specifications

Windows Computers (minimum specifications)
  • Windows 11 / 64-bit OS
  • Intel i5 (or better) OR AMD Ryzen 5 (or better)
  • 8GB RAM (or greater)
  • 256GB SSD (or greater)
  • 1024 x 768 Resolution (or greater)
  • Webcam and Microphone
Apple MacBook Computers (minimum specifications)
  • macOS 12 Monterey (or higher)
  • Intel i5 (or better) OR Apple M1 (or better)
  • 8GB RAM (or greater)
  • 256GB SSD (or greater)
  • 1366 x 768 ( or greater)
  • Webcam and Microphone

High-End Graphics & Computation Specifications

Windows Computers
  • Windows 11 Pro / 64-bit OS
  • Intel i7 (or better) OR AMD Ryzen 7 (or better)
  • 16GB RAM (or greater)
  • 512GB SSD (or greater)
  • 1920 x 1080 (or greater) Screen Resolution
  • 2GB (or greater) Dedicated Video Card
  • Webcam and Microphone
Apple MacBook Computers
  • macOS 13 Ventura (or higher)
  • Intel i7 (or better) OR Apple M1 Pro (or better)
  • 16GB RAM (or greater)
  • 512GB SSD (or greater)
  • 1920 x 1080 ( or greater) Screen Resolution
  • 2GB of VRAM (or greater) OR Apple Silicon processor with 14-core GPU (or better
  • Webcam and Microphone

Remote Connectivity

A broadband (cable or DSL) internet connection with AT LEAST 5 Mbps download and 2 Mbps upload speed & a Ping rate less than 100ms is needed to participate in any online course or remote classroom. Check Your Speed: www.speedtest.net.

What BW offers

Baldwin Wallace offers a wide variety of software and services to support you, including:

  • Microsoft 365: Including PowerPoint, Word, Excel, OneDrive, Teams, and more
  • BW Virtual Desktop: Access to any course software available anywhere.
  • Jacket Connect: Your central hub for all student online resources conveniently available in one place.
  • GET Mobile: You BW Mobile Credential (BW ID) - use your phone to tap into buildings, pay for meals, and even attend events on campus.
  • IT Support Center: Stop by the IT Support Center for problems accessing WiFi, adding your ID to your wallet, installing software, or troubleshooting hardware and software issues. The IT Support Portal, help.bw.edu, has hundreds of knowledge articles to assist you.

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