Windows devices
Microsoft regularly review how updates and releases are delivered and supported but the practical outcome is generally similar to the following:
Microsoft supplies regular updates for the current Windows version and the two previous major releases.
After 14 October 2025, Microsoft will no longer provide security updates or technical support for Windows 10. Your PC will still work, but we recommend moving to Windows 11
Users should verify that all the software and services required for their working or learning role are fully supported by a newly released Windows operating system version before updating to that new version.
To ensure that users are not exposed to unnecessary security risks and compatibility issues we strongly recommend that users use a device that can run Windows 10/11 or MacOS 13 Ventura or above.
Regular updates will be delivered which users should not prevent from being deployed.
Minimum hardware specifications
This specification is intended to offer sufficient general computing capability that allows a device to remain in service for 5 years.
For Windows desktop or laptop computers, we recommend the following:
- Windows 10/11 Home or above
- i5 processor or above
- 8Gb RAM
- 512 GB SSD hard disk (256GB minimum)
- Webcam
- Microphone
- Speakers/headphones
- Dual band (2.4GHz and 5GHz compatible) WiFi 802.11ax (either as external USB dongle or built-in)
These specifications are provided for general purpose use. For some purposes a higher specification computer will be needed.
RGU reserves the right to disconnect Windows devices from the RGU networks if they pose a threat to other users, devices or services.
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Apple devices
For Mac desktop or laptop computer, we recommend:
- macOS 13 Ventura or above
- Intel i5 processor or above, or Apple M1 and above
- 8GB RAM
- 512 GB SSD storage
- Webcam
- Microphone
- Speakers/headphones
- Dual band (2.4GHz and 5GHz compatible) WiFi 802.11ax (either as external USB dongle or built-in)
For macOS devices Apple normally supplies updates and new Safari (web browser) versions for the current macOS major version and two previous major versions.
For iOS and iPad OS devices Apple normally supplies updates for the current major version only.
Please verify that all the software and services required for your working or learning role are supported by a newly released Apple operating system version before updating to that new version.
For security reasons we strongly recommend that you use an Apple device that can run one of the supported operating system versions described above and apply minor version updates promptly after they are released.
Find details of Apple’s recently released updates and the device models they support on the Apple support website.
RGU reserves the right to disconnect Apple devices from the RGU networks if they pose a threat to other users, devices or services.
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Tablets, Chromebooks and computers running Windows 10S
Please note that tablets, Chromebooks, and computers running Windows 10S (a cut down version of Windows) may not be suitable for long term academic study.