Information Technology Services

ITS-Approved Computer Hardware Standards for Faculty & Staff

George Mason Standard System Requirements

The endpoint device configurations listed below are approved for purchase with George Mason funds. It is requested that all machines have Windows 11 Pro when purchased. ITS does not support Windows 11 Home.

Common reasons to update endpoint devices:
  • Hardware compatibility: As technology changes, existing hardware may begin to run into compatibility issues.
  • Operating system compatibility: George Mason requires all endpoint devices to maintain up-to-date operating systems for both Windows and Mac computers.
  • Security: When a device can no longer accept updates, this can lead to operational issues making it susceptible to malicious programs (e.g., viruses, malware, etc.).
Life cycle recommendations:

ITS recommends replacing machines on a varying timeline dependent on the general usage of each device. Please review the below timeline for a general breakdown:

  • Device replacement every 3-5 years for power users (i.e., Research and Development)
  • Device replacement every 5 years for classroom and lab environments
  • Device replacement every 5-7 years for general use by faculty/staff/wage employees

ITS-Approved Computer Systems & Peripherals

Dell | Microsoft | Apple

The models listed below are standardized configurations; upgrades are available at an additional cost. For information on purchasing an endpoint device not listed below, submit a request for a Desktop Consultation or contact ITS Support.

*Pricing and availability are subject to change without prior notification or obligation.

Suggested Vendors

ITS recommends purchasing computers from the following approved vendors:

  • Apple: Apple e-commerce, CDW-G, Patriot Tech
  • Dell machines: Dell , Patriot Tech
  • Microsoft Surface: CDW-G, Patriot Tech

Dell

Dell Desktops

ModelProcessor*MemoryStorageOperating System
Dell Pro MicroIntel Core Ultra 7 vPro16GB512GB SSDWindows 11 Pro/Ent
Dell Pro SlimIntel Core Ultra 7 vPro16GB512GB SSDWindows 11 Pro/Ent
Dell Pro TowerIntel Core Ultra 7 vPro16GB512GB SSDWindows 11 Pro/Ent
Dell Pro Max MicroIntel Core Ultra 7 vPro16GB512GB SSDWindows 11 Pro/Ent
Dell Pro Max SlimIntel Core Ultra 7 vPro16GB512GB SSDWindows 11 Pro/Ent
Dell Pro Max TowerIntel Core Ultra 7 vPro16GB512GB SSDWindows 11 Pro/Ent
Dell Pro 24 AIO PlusIntel Core Ultra 7 vPro16GB512GB SSDWindows 11 Pro/Ent

Dell desktops purchased through George Mason’s Dell contract come with a 3-year warranty.

Dell Laptops

ModelProcessor*MemoryStorageOperating System
Dell Pro 13 PlusIntel Core Ultra 7 vPro16GB512GB M.2Windows 11 Pro/Ent
Dell Pro 14 PlusIntel Core Ultra 7 vPro16GB512GB M.2Windows 11 Pro/Ent
Dell Pro 16 PlusIntel Core Ultra 7 vPro16GB512GB M.2Windows 11 Pro/Ent
Dell Pro 14 PremiumIntel Core Ultra 7 vPro16GB512GB M.2Windows 11 Pro/Ent
Dell Pro Max 16Intel Core Ultra 7 vPro16GB512GB M.2Windows 11 Pro/Ent

Dell laptops purchased through George Mason’s Dell contract come with a 3-year warranty.

Dell Laptop Accessories

Model
Dell Pro Thunderbolt 4 Smart Dock – SD25TB4
Dell USB-C Mobile Adapter – DA300
Dell Pro 7-in-1 USB-C Travel Hub – DA310

Dell Monitors

Departments may purchase monitors that best meet the needs of their users. The following monitors are presented as suggestions to aid in selection.

Desktop Monitors
Model
Dell Pro Thunderbolt 4 Smart Dock – SD25TB4
Dell USB-C Mobile Adapter – DA300
Dell Pro 7-in-1 USB-C Travel Hub – DA310
Video Conferencing Monitors
Model
Dell 24 Video Conferencing Monitor P2424HEB
Dell 27 Video Conferencing Monitor P2724DEB
Dell UltraSharp 32 Video Conferencing Monitor U3223QZ
Dell 34 Curved Video Conferencing Monitor P3424WEB

Microsoft

Microsoft Surfaces 2 in I Laptops

ModelProcessorMemoryStorageOperating System
Surface Laptop 7, 13.8″Intel Core Ultra 7 vPro16GB512GBWin 11 Pro/Ent
Surface Pro 11, 13″Intel Core Ultra 7 vPro16GB512GBWin 11 Pro/Ent

Apple

All current Apple computers have Apple silicone processors

Apple Desktops

ModelProcessorMemoryStorage
iMac 24″Latest Available16GB512GB
Mac MiniLatest Available16GB512GB
Mac StudioLatest Available32GB512GB


* AppleCare+ extends the 1-year Apple Warranty to 3 or 4 years and adds accidental coverage, with or without deductibles, depending on the plan purchased. For details, read AppleCare+ for Schools.

Apple Laptops

ModelProcessorMemoryStorage
Model: MacBook Neo *with Touch IDLatest Available8GB512GB
MacBook Air 13″Latest Available16GB512GB
MacBook Air 15″Latest Available16GB512GB
MacBook Pro 14″Latest Available16GB512GB
MacBook Pro 16″Latest Available16GB512GB


* AppleCare+ extends the 1-year Apple Warranty to 3 or 4 years and adds accidental coverage, with or without deductibles, depending on the plan purchased. AppleCare+ extends the 1-year Apple Warranty to 3 years and adds accidental coverage. (Deductibles apply.) For details, read AppleCare+ for Schools.

Apple Accessories

Model
Satechi Multiport Pro Adapter V2 (with Ethernet)
CalDigit TS5 Thunderbolt Dock

Apple Repairs

ITS offers on-campus certified Apple repairs through Desktop and Classroom Support Services

Software Updates

Software applications and updates are available for managed George Mason-owned devices.

Windows Devices

Software applications and updates for Windows devices are available through Software Center.

Apple Devices

Software applications and updates for Mac devices are available through Mason Self Service.

Two-Factor Authentication

Learn more about Two-Factor Authentication (2FA).

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