Are you excited to set yourself up for success this term? Ensuring you have all the technology in place to access Laurier's online learning resources is a great first step.
From taking part in your courses to accessing student support, these are the minimum technical requirements essential for students that will be learning remotely.
Recommended Laptop Specs
Windows PC
- Operating System: Windows 10
- Processor Type: Core i5 U, H, or HQ Processor
- Hard Drive: Minimum 250 GB (SSD recommended)
- Virus Protection: Antivirus protection
- Graphics Card: Intel integrated graphics (or better)
- Memory: 8 GB RAM
- Wireless Network: Card supporting wireless
Mac
- Operating System: Mac OS 10
- Processor Type: Intel® 6th Gen
- Hard Drive: Minimum 512 GB (SSD recommended)
- Virus Protection: N/A
- Graphics Card: Intel Integrated Graphics (or better)
- Memory: 8 GB RAM
- Wireless Network: Card supporting wireless
Note: Individual programs or courses may have additional requirements. It's best to reach out to your faculty, program, or professor for extra guidance.
Where to Purchase Laptops
All students can take advantage of Laurier's partnerships with Apple and Dell to purchase new laptops at a discounted price. The laptops and computer accessories offered by both companies in our partnerships meet the minimum requirements.
Recommended Computer Accessories
- high-speed internet connection (1.5 Mbps)
- microphone, speakers or headphones
- web camera
- USB-A port
- Bluetooth capabilities
- external webcam required for some faculty’s assessments
Recommended Software
Office 365
Laurier students can access Microsoft Office 365 free of charge. One particularly helpful program for remote learning within the Microsoft Office 365 suite is Teams.
Teams is an open, digital workplace platform that combines chats, meetings, notes and attachments. It incorporates other Office 365 applications to make work visible, integrated, and accessible for all students.
Zoom
Many classes at Laurier use Zoom web-conferencing for remote learning.
Zoom unifies cloud video conferencing, simple online meetings, and group messaging into one easy-to-use platform. The solution offers video, audio, and wireless screen-sharing experience across multiple platforms.
Student Laptop Loaner Program
All Laurier students with a valid OneCard can loan a laptop beginning Sept. 7, 2021.
The loan period for all laptops and appropriate accessories is now for 14 days.
Available for loan:
- 10 Dell 5400 laptops
- 16 MacBook Airs
Waterloo: Laptops and MacBook Airs are available from our ICT Service Desk in the Concourse.
Brantford: Two laptops are available from the U-Desk located at the Student Centre.
Those interested in loaning a laptop can do so on Sept.7 and must be returned to ICT within the 14 day loan period
Note: Staff will verify that the equipment and accessories have been returned. Any items that are returned damaged will be the responsibility of the student. Students will be charged the cost of the repair or full replacement cost of the laptop itself (up to $1,500).
Remote Tech Support
If you ever experience issues connecting to these services, contact the ICT Service Desk by emailing support@mylaurier.ca.
The ICT Service Desk continues to be available to support your technical needs during remote learning.
