Notebook Computer Requirements & Recommendations
The Information Technology department at William James College provides our campus network with Wi-Fi access. The following recommended notebook computer specifications, should be considered when choosing a laptop for use during your graduate studies at the WJC. These recommendations will ensure the operating system and its application software meets the hardware requirements needed to effectively execute applications used by the majority of our students.
We advise against students using Google Chromebooks. They are not compatible with William James systems and some software needed for student work.
Recommended Standards for 2026 Academic Year
Windows PC
| Component | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| OS | Windows 11 (latest supported version) |
| Processor | Intel Core i5 (11th Gen or newer) or AMD Ryzen 5 (5000 series or newer) |
| Memory | 16 GB RAM (8 GB minimum, but not recommended) |
| Storage | 512 GB SSD (256 GB minimum) |
| Graphics | Integrated graphics are sufficient |
| Camera | 720p minimum, 1080p preferred |
| Wireless | Wi-Fi 6 or newer |
| TPM | TPM 2.0 (included on Windows 11-compatible devices) |
Apple MacOS
| Component | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| OS | Current or previous supported macOS release (Mac OS 14 or after) |
| Processor | Apple Silicon (M1 or newer) |
| Memory | 16 GB unified memory |
| Storage | 512 GB SSD (256 GB minimum) |
| Camera | Built-in HD camera |
| Wireless | Wi-Fi 6 or newer |
Please note:
iPads, Chromebooks, Netbooks, Android-based tablets, Microsoft Surface RT, eReaders, iPhones, Android phones and other similar devices are not recommended as a student’s primary notebook computer due to the various limitations of these devices. However, a Microsoft Surface Pro (not RT) would be an exception given that you also purchase the external keyboard and don't mind its 4 hour battery life.
If you have any questions, please contact the WJC Support Team by either emailing Support@williamjames.edu, calling 617-327-6777 ext. 1600, or visiting the IT Office on the ground floor.
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