Bentley’s Computer Configuration for Students

If you are bringing a computer to campus that was not purchased through Bentley’s computer purchase program, the computer you bring to campus should meet Bentley’s required minimum computer configuration below. If you choose to bring your own computer remember to bring all of your computer documentation, software media, and warranty information with you to campus. These materials serve as essential resources and may be needed by Bentley’s repair services group to assist in solving computer problems that may arise. Bentley has chosen the following computer specifications to ensure that you can take full advantage of Bentley’s computing environment:

• Windows 10 and 11 Professional Operating System (Windows 11 preferred)
• Intel i5 processor or better
• 16 GB RAM or better
• 256 GB hard drive or more, solid-state drive (SSD) strongly recommended
• At least 2 USB or USB-C ports
• 1920 x 1080 display or better
• Built-in keyboard
• Wi-Fi capability*
• 3-year warranty (4-year warranty preferred)
• 3-year accidental damage protection (4-year protection preferred)
• Anti-virus (Windows Defender is included with Windows 10 and 11 Pro)

*Laptops, desktops and gaming machines must include wireless (Wi-Fi) networking capability as there are no active ethernet ports to plug into in the dorm rooms or classrooms.

Tablets and other devices:

iPads, Chromebooks and Microsoft Surface Pro products cannot accommodate all software and screen size requirements for your courses and are not recommended. Utilizing these products will put you at a disadvantage in completing your academic coursework. 
 

Things to consider before bringing a Mac:

Bentley does not recommend the use of a Mac computer and cannot guarantee compatibility with Windows-only applications used in certain courses. Departments include Accounting, Computer Information Systems, Finance and several general business core courses. In most cases, students with Macs will need to purchase and install software to use Windows-only applications to complete course requirements. Installing virtualization software is both time consuming and requires advanced technical knowledge to install on your Mac computer.  

• Some Windows applications are available through Bentley Virtual Apps (BVA), a virtual Windows environment. Go to the Bentley Virtual Apps page for more BVA information.

• If you need a Windows-based academic application that is not available via BVA, you will need to install Parallels for a fee and meet all hardware and software requirements for the applications.