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Mercer University recommends that all computers purchased for student use meet the following criteria in order to be compatible with university networks. Students may purchase computers through the retail venue of their choice. Special student rates are available on certain computers from select retailers; for more information see Student Discounts.

Distance learning courses are delivered synchronously and asynchronously via video web conferencing applications and online learning applications such as Canvas. High-speed internet access is recommended for all distance learning students. Some courses will require that students have access to headphones, speakers, microphones, and/or webcams for use with web conferencing applications such as Zoom. Some courses/majors may have additional requirements; for example, Software Engineering students must have access to a computer adequate for software development.

Note: Chromebooks, tablets, and iPads/iPhones are NOT recommended for use as primary devices. Also, computers with Windows S-Mode are considered lower performance/resource systems. They have limited functionality and are not compatible with many of Mercer's applications and services.

Windows-Based Systems
Recommended Configuration
  • Processor: Intel Core i5 or better; AMD Ryzen R5 or better
  • Operating System: Windows 10 or above
    (Windows S-Mode not recommended)
  • Memory: 8GB RAM or greater
  • Storage: 256 GB SSD or better; 512 GB SSD or better recommended for digital arts, data analysis, and engineering
  • Peripherals: Webcam, microphone, and speakers or headphones
Network Connectivity WiFi supported and wired network adapter recommended.
Network cables may be purchased at Auxiliary Services.
Web Browser
Edge, Firefox, or Google Chrome
Antivirus Software Microsoft Defender Antivirus comes standard on Windows 10 and will be enabled automatically if no other active antivirus software is detected. Microsoft Defender antivirus is compatible with Mercer systems.
Software Microsoft Office is available for free to current students. For more information, visit the Licensed Software website.
Network Access Assistance
For assistance with basic system configurations to establish access to the Mercer network, contact Mercer's IT Help Desk.

Apple Mac (Not recommended for Business or Engineering students)
Recommended Configuration
  • Processor: Apple M1 or better
  • Operating System: macOS Ventura
  • Memory: 8GB RAM or greater
    (16 GB Unified Memory recommended for digital arts/data analysis)
  • Storage: 256 GB SSD or better; 512 GB SSD or better recommended for digital arts or data analysis
  • Peripherals: Webcam, microphone, and speakers or headphones
Network Connectivity WiFi supported and wired network adapter recommended.
Network cables may be purchased at Auxiliary Services.
Web Browser
Firefox or Google Chrome
Antivirus Software
MacOS has built-in protections against basic malware. For more advanced protection, we recommend purchasing a third-party Antivirus solution:
Malwarebytes Premium
ClamXAV
Software Microsoft Office is available for free to current students. For more information, visit the Licensed Software website.
Network Access Assistance
For assistance with basic system configurations to establish access to the Mercer network, contact Mercer's IT Help Desk.




helpdesk@mercer.edu
(478) 301-7000