Computer Recommendations

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

Distance learning courses are delivered synchronously and asynchronously via video web conferencing applications and online learning applications such as Zoom and Canvas. High-speed internet access is a requirement. Specifically, internet connections with speeds slower than 15 Mbps download and 1 Mbps upload are not recommended for participation in distance learning classes. Many courses also require access to headphones, speakers, microphones, and/or webcams for use with the web conferencing application.

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, iPads/iPhones, and Windows in S-Mode computers are NOT recommended for use as primary devices. Each has limited functionality and is incompatible with many of Mercer’s applications and services, potentially hindering your learning experience.

Windows-Based Systems
Recommended Configuration	Processor: Intel Core Ultra 5 or better; AMD Ryzen R5 or better Operating System: Windows 10 or above Memory: 8GB RAM or greater Storage: 256 GB SSD or better; 512 GB SSD or better recommended for digital arts, data analysis, and engineering
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 more information about basic system configurations, 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
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 advanced protection, we recommend purchasing a third-party antivirus solution such as Malwarebytes Premium
Software	Microsoft Office is available for free to current students. For more information, visit theLicensed Software website.
Network Access Assistance	For more information about basic system configurations, contact Mercer's IT Help Desk.

helpdesk@mercer.edu
(478) 301-7000