Recommended software and hardware configurations
Click on the following links for purchasing methods and recommendations/guidelines:
- Buying the right computer
- Connecting to TTUnet
- Software (operating systems and utility software)
- Hardware Configurations (type of processor, memory, storage, etc.) for:
- Printers
- Mobile devices
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 www.askit.ttu.edu.
Software recommendations
| Operating systems | |
|---|---|
| Windows 10 Enterprise or Professional | https://askit.ttu.edu/windows10 |
| macOS High Sierra (10.13) or higher | https://www.apple.com/macos |
| Operating systems components, and security service packs and patches | |
| Windows operating system and Microsoft Office updates | https://askit.ttu.edu/winupdate |
| Mac operating system updates | https://askit.ttu.edu/macupdate |
| Application software | |
| Microsoft Office 365 (recommended) | Available through Office.com |
| Microsoft Office 2019 | For installation on labs and shared computers |
| Microsoft Skype for Business | Available through https://unifiedcommunications.ttu.edu |
| Anti-virus software | |
| Symantec Endpoint Protection | Available from https://eraider.ttu.edu or at ATLC Main |
| Internet browsing software | |
| Chrome (latest version) | https://www.google.com/chrome |
| Firefox (latest version) | https://www.firefox.com |
| Internet Explorer 11 | https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/help/17621/internet-explorer-downloads |
| Safari 11 or higher | https://www.apple.com/safari |
| TechMail | |
| Microsoft Outlook (Exchange Server configuration) | https://askit.ttu.edu/email |
| Outlook on the web | https://askit.ttu.edu/outlookontheweb |
| Additional utilities | |
| Adobe Reader | https://www.adobe.com/reader |
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) | 8 GB |
| Hard drive | 320 GB |
| Optical drive | Optional DVD +/- RW combo drive |
| Monitor | 22" or higher |
| Sound | Integrated, standard |
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.
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.
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 adapter, 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.
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.
Mobile devices
| Recommended mobile devices | |
|---|---|
| Devices running Android 6 or higher | |
| Phones running iOS 13 or higher | |
| Tablets running iPadOS 13 or higher | |
| Operating systems components, and security service packs and patches | |
| Android operating system updates | https://askit.ttu.edu/androidupdate |
| iPhone operating system updates | https://askit.ttu.edu/iosupdate |
| iPad operating system updates | https://askit.ttu.edu/ipadosupdate |
IT Help Central
-
Address
407 Flint Ave, Lubbock, TX 79409 -
Phone
806-742-4357 (HELP) or toll-free 877-484-3573 -
Email
ithelpcentral@ttu.edu