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.
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 any of the supported operating system versions described 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 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.
Apple devices:
For Mac desktop or laptop computer, we recommend:
- macOS 11 Big Sur 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 iPadOS 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.
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.