Texas Tech University

Recommended software and hardware configurations

One of the key methods in securing the enterprise with judicial use of limited budget resources is via pre-approved IT solutions, including the creation of major institutional contracts, such as Microsoft, Dell, and Apple, with appropriate educational discounts for both institutional and research use by students, faculty, and staff.

Click the following links for purchasing methods and recommendations/guidelines:

These configurations are provided to give a balance between cost and performance. Note that technology specifications change constantly and that an adequately performing computer or device today may not perform adequately throughout your time at Texas Tech.

The TTU IT Division offers software through a site license agreements between Texas Tech University and various software vendors.Please see https://www.depts.ttu.edu/itts/software for details.

TTUnet network standards

Connecting To Texas Tech University
On-campus wired network 10/100/1,000 Mbps Ethernet
On-campus Wi-Fi network 802.11n wireless with WPA2 Enterprise (more info)
Off-campus broadband DSL, cable modem, or other broadband service

For instructions on how to connect, troubleshoot connection problems, or to review policies regarding network usage, please search askIT at https://askit.ttu.edu.

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Software recommendations

Computer operating systems
Windows 11 (any version) or Windows 10 (21H2 or newer), Enterprise or Professional https://askit.ttu.edu/windows
macOS Monterey (12.7.3) or newer https://askit.ttu.edu/mac
Security and software updates
Windows operating system and Microsoft app updates https://askit.ttu.edu/winupdate
Mac operating system and Apple app updates https://askit.ttu.edu/macupdate
Application software
Microsoft 365 apps https://askit.ttu.edu/m365apps
Skype for Business https://askit.ttu.edu/sfb
Anti-virus software for TTU-owned systems
Microsoft Defender for Endpoint https://askit.ttu.edu/antivirus
Anti-virus software for personally-owned systems
We recommend using your operating system's built-in security features (e.g., Windows Defender Antivirus) or an anti-virus product of your choosing.  
Internet browsing software
Chrome (latest version) https://www.google.com/chrome
Edge (latest version) https://www.microsoft.com/edge
Safari (latest version) https://www.apple.com/safari
TechMail
Microsoft Outlook (Exchange configuration) https://askit.ttu.edu/email
Outlook on the web https://askit.ttu.edu/outlookontheweb
Additional utilities
Adobe Acrobat Reader https://www.adobe.com/reader

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Desktop hardware configuration: Standard user

This computer will provide adequate computing power for most individuals. This configuration will be sufficient to complete most common assignments, browse the Web, and compile data.

Processor Dual-core
RAM (memory) 16 GB
Hard drive 500 GB
Optical drive Optional DVD +/- RW combo drive
Monitor 22" or higher
Sound Integrated, standard

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Desktop hardware configuration: Power user

This computer is closer to the leading edge of computer power and provides additional computing resources required to work with CPU-intensive applications such as CAD, programming utilities, digital image manipulation, etc.

Processor Quad-core
RAM (memory) 16 GB
Hard drive 512 GB SSD
Optical drive(s) Optional DVD +/- RW combo drive
Video 1 GB or above PCI-Express with DisplayPort output
Monitor Widescreen, 22" or higher, with DisplayPort input
Sound Integrated, 5.1 channel

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Laptop hardware configuration: Standard user

This computer will provide adequate computing power for most individuals. This configuration will be sufficient to complete most common assignments, browse the Web, and compile data.

Processor Dual-core
RAM (memory) 8-16 GB
Hard Drive 500 GB
Optical drive(s) Optional external optical drive
Network 802.11n wireless with WPA2 Enterprise (more info), and Ethernet adapter for wired connectivity
Monitor 12" or higher

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Note: Wireless connectivity may not be available in all locations on campus. Wired connectivity may be required, which may require an adapter for some laptops.

Laptop hardware configuration: Power user

This computer is closer to the leading edge of computer power and provides additional computing resources required to work with CPU-intensive applications. It also provides the ultimate benefit of mobility.

Processor Quad-core
RAM (memory) 16 GB or higher
Hard drive 256 GB SSD or higher
Optical drive(s) Optional external optical drive
Network 802.11n wireless with WPA2 Enterprise (more info), and Ethernet adapter for wired connectivity
Monitor 12" or higher

Note: Wireless connectivity may not be available in all locations on campus. Wired connectivity may be required, which may require an adapter for some laptops.

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Printers

Printer specifications
For TTU departmental purchases, consider the following specifications:
Printer speed Color vs. black & white
Printer resolution Laser/toner vs. inkjet
Printer connectivity (i.e., USB, wired network) Physical dimensions and weight

Note: Wi-Fi enabled printers are not supported on the TTUnet network.

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Tools for learning, teaching, and working remotely

https://go.ttu.edu/remoteaccess

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Mobile devices

Recommended mobile devices
Android 11 or newer
iOS 16 or newer
Security and software updates
Android updates https://askit.ttu.edu/androidupdate
iOS updates https://askit.ttu.edu/iosupdate

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