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Computer Specifications Recommendations | Bismarck State College

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Computer Specifications Recommendations

The below serves as general computer recommendations for BSC students. Visit your academic program page for the specific computer requirements for your academic program.

All BSC courses use a Learning Management System (LMS) called Blackboard. Chromebooks, Chrome OS devices, iPads, and mobile devices (iOS, Android phones, tablets) do not allow students to satisfactorily access and complete course content.
 
BSC has computer labs and computer lab hours.
 
BSC provides Wi-Fi internet/wireless connectivity on campus for student technology.  Wired internet is not available for personal devices.  Personal routers and access points will not work on BSC’s network.
 
Most students prefer a laptop computer, instead of a desktop computer; it can be taken wherever you go.  For students using or purchasing their own technology (desktop or laptop), BSC recommends reviewing the recommended and minimum specifications. Keep in mind, technology changes are frequent.
 
Contact BSC’s Teaching & Learning Center at bsc.tlc@bismarckstate.edu with any questions regarding program recommended technology.

updated: 11/22/21
 

Computer Desktop or Laptop System Specifications Recommendations

Description

Recommended

Minimum Requirements
Operating System Windows 10 Pro or higher Windows 10 Home
Processor Type Intel Core i5 or i7 or AMD Ryzen equivalent Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen equivalent
Memory (Ram) 16 GB 8 GB
Hard Drive 250 GB Solid State 250 GB Conventional Drive
Webcam (Required) Either built-in or external USB Either built-in or external USB
Audio Headset/Headphones with Microphone Headset/Headphones with Microphone
Internet Connectivity Wi-Fi required Wi-Fi required
Warranty 3-4 Year, parts & labor No warranty
Microsoft Office 365 FREE provided by NDUS FREE provided by NDUS
Virus Protection Software Microsoft Defender is included with Windows 10 or higher, or other Free or Purchased products Microsoft Defender is included with Windows 10 or higher, or other Free or Purchased products
Read Write Gold (Optional) FREE provided by NDUS FREE provided by NDUS
 

Cybersecurity: Computer Desktop or Laptop System Specifications Recommendations 

Description

Recommended

Minimum Requirements
Operating System Windows 10 Pro or higher Windows 10 Pro
Processor Type Intel Core i5 or i7 or AMD Ryzen equivalent Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen equivalent
Memory (Ram) 16 GB 12 GB
Hard Drive 512 GB Solid State 515 GB Conventional Drive
USB At least 2 USB ports  
USB/Flash/Drive 8GB or higher  
External Hard Drive 2TB or higher  
Networks Wired and WiFi WiFi only

More details about Cybersecurity laptop specifications.