Get ready for success at UB! Find out what kind of computer we recommend, learn about discounts on hardware, and discover programs for affordable Internet.
We recommend Windows or Apple laptops or computers for academic coursework. Tablets or smartphones are also helpful for on-the-go note-taking and messaging. At this time, UB does not support or recommend purchase or use of a Chromebook.
(Standards last updated January 25, 2023)
(Standards last updated January 25, 2023)
Some schools and departments, including the following, have their own computer standards. Speak with them before making a purchase: Department of Art, Department of Computer Science and Engineering (CSE), School of Architecture and Planning, School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS), School of Management, School of Medicine, School of Nursing and School of Social Work
If your current computer is not sufficient for coursework or remote learning (for example, you don’t have a web cam), here are some resources that may help.
UB students, faculty and staff are eligible to purchase computers with educational discounts:
Students who live on campus can use ResNet or eduroam wi-fi in their room or campus apartment. If you live off campus, you need an Internet service provider to connect from your residence.
UB uses a variety of collaboration and conferencing tools. To ensure adequate access to these tools, UBIT strongly recommends following Zoom’s minimum Internet bandwidth requirements.
Live off campus? Pell Grant recipients and others: Get up to $30 off your Internet bill monthly through the FCC's Affordable Connectivity Program.
Check to see which providers service your area and which low-income plan best meets your needs. If you qualify for the Affordable Connectivity Program, you can apply your ACP discount toward your monthly bill.
We support PC and Macintosh computers (desktop, laptop and notebook). We do not officially endorse any particular mobile or printing device. We do not recommend Chromebooks. (Some schools and departments at UB have their own computer requirements and support.)
Does UB have hardware I can borrow for a short period of time?
The UB Libraries loan out laptops, camcorders, cameras, audio equipment, accessories, adapters, tripods, video gaming systems and games, on an as-available basis.
Contact the UBIT Help Center.