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Desktop and Software Standards

Office of Information Technology recommended computer hardware, software, and vendor standards apply to all colleges, departments, and offices at Boise State University.

These standards include:

  • Fully supported hardware and software
  • Partially supported hardware and software
  • Fully supported software
  • Desktop standards
  • Machine standards
  • Mobile computing devices
  • Preferred vendors
  • Minimum recommended Windows hardware
  • Minimum recommended Mac hardware

For assistance, contact the Help Desk at (208) 426-4357, email helpdesk@boisestate.edu, or chat.

Definitions

Definitions

Fully Supported Hardware and Software

Refers to desktops and applications supported by staff with knowledge of the hardware or software. Documentation is available, training may be offered, and consultation may be arranged.

Partially Supported Hardware and Software

Refers to functioning desktops and applications that may have compatibility issues with University systems, or may be beyond the product’s stated lifecycle and warranty. We support these desktops and applications, but departments bear the associated costs.

Fully Supported Software

Current Fully Supported SoftwareWindows 10Apple macOS 10.13 - 10.15
Office Productivity SuiteMicrosoft Office 2016 and 2019Microsoft Office 2016 and 2019
E-MailG Suite for EducationG Suite for Education
CalendaringG Suite for EducationG Suite for Education
Web BrowserGoogle Chrome
Microsoft Edge
Mozilla Firefox		Google Chrome
Apple Safari
Mozilla Firefox
Anti-VirusMicrosoft Endpoint ProtectionSymantec Endpoint Protection

Software is fully supported only if compatible with University administrative systems, and if the current version is within the manufacturer’s supported product lifecycle.

Desktop Standards

Windows 7, 8.1 and 10 are currently supported Microsoft operating systems.

Apple macOS 10.13 and above are supported operating systems on Apple Macintosh computers. Apple regularly releases upgrades for macOS which address stability and performance issues. Technical support staff may recommend upgrading to the current version as a first step to resolving known issues with earlier releases of macOS.

Apple or Windows-based computers are fully supported for three years after the purchase date. Starting in the fourth year of service, the computer will be partially supported.

Machine Standards

Machines used for administrative purposes must be able to operate within the University’s network and run administrative systems using supported software.

Machines used for academic purposes must be able to operate within the University’s network.

Computers purchased for all purposes should be enterprise models offered by contracted vendors. Desktops and laptops manufactured primarily for “home” or “small business” use may appear to cost less at first glance, but support, repair and upgrade costs may prove more substantial over the computer’s lifetime.

Mobile Computing Devices

Smartphones and tablets can be an appropriate choice for the mobile employee.  Mobile devices allow individuals to stay in contact with the office, organize daily tasks, and store or access important information (such as contacts or documents).

The Office of Information Technology supports Google’s G Suite for Education applications and solutions providing real-time device connectivity and synchronization.

Preferred Vendors

The State of Idaho requires Boise State University to order computers from contracted vendors.

Preferred and contracted vendors

Minimum Recommended Windows Hardware

  • 8 gigabytes of memory (RAM)
  • 100+ gigabyte hard drive

Minimum Recommended Mac Hardware

  • 8 gigabytes of memory (RAM)
  • 100+ gigabyte hard drive