Technology
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All incoming students are required to possess a computer that meets the minimum specifications outlined below. This requirement ensures full participation in all technology‑supported activities within the School of Dentistry. While these specifications represent the minimum/recommended acceptable standards, students must maintain their operating system, web browser, and antivirus software in a fully updated state at all times.
| Component | Minimum requirements | Recommended |
|---|---|---|
| Operating System (O/S)* | Win11 v24H2 or higher ** macOS Sonoma, Sequoia, or later | Win11 v25H2 or higher ** macOS Tahoe |
| Hard Drive Capacity | 256GB SSD or higher | 512GB SSD or higher |
| Processor (CPU) | Intel Core i5 13th Gen Apple M3 chip | Intel Core i7 or i9 13th or14th Gen (if purchasing a new laptop) Apple M4 chip or higher |
| Memory (RAM) | 8GB | 16GB |
| Graphics Card (GPU) | An integrated card will suffice; no requirement for a dedicated card | An integrated card will suffice; no requirement for a dedicated card |
| Warranty | 3 years with Accidental Damage | 4 years extended |
| Wireless Card | 802.11ac (Wi-Fi 5) | 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6E) |
| Communication | Integrated or USB webcam, microphone and speakers | Integrated webcam, microphone and speakers |
IMPORTANT:
* Windows 10 is no longer supported by Microsoft and therefore does not meet ULSD requirements. You must use Windows 11 version 24H2 or higher to meet current security and compatibility standards.
**Pro, Education or Enterprise versions of Windows 11 meet the ULSD requirements. If you have Windows 11 Home versions, please see below section on Software for upgrading from Home to Education versions of Windows 11.
Please use extreme care when upgrading any operating system, ensuring that all software used is compatible with any upgrade. If unsure, check with the Dental Informatics department.
Disk Encryption
You must be able to encrypt your drive using BitLocker (Microsoft) or File Vault (macOS). BitLocker is only available on Win 11 Pro, Education and Enterprise versions. (See Software section below for upgrading Win 11 home.)
Encryption instructions for both operating systems can be found in the Data Security Packet.
Restrictions
Chromebooks, Netbooks, iPads or Android tablets do not meet ULSD’s requirements. Same goes for MS Surfaces running Windows RT, 11 Home S Mode or any mobile operating system. As a result, these cannot be used.
Software
- Browser: Current compatible browsers are Chrome, Edge, Safari and Firefox. These must be patched and updated to the latest versions on a regular basis for security measures.
- Blackboard & Lockdown Browser: Ensure any IOS upgrades are checked with the compatibility with Blackboard & Lockdown Browser.
- ExamSoft: This software is used for testing in most courses. Be aware of updating this software in line with your O/S; some versions of ExamSoft released are incompatible with certain versions of Windows and Mac O/Ss. Check with Connie Rough in Academic Affairs first before proceeding.
- Microsoft Windows 11 Education: The university does offer an upgrade from Windows 11 home to Windows 11 Education edition. Go to Upgrade to Win 11 Education.
- Microsoft 365: Enrolled students are permitted to download the MS Office suite on 5 devices for free. Go to Microsoft Office365. If you need assistance, you can ask Dental Informatics for help.
Security
Students using PCs are required to use an antivirus software. If your windows device does not already have Windows Defender installed, you can purchase a subscription from the following link: Microsoft Defender
Alternatively, you may use another antivirus program that is subscription-based. (Free antivirus programs do not meet ULSD requirements.)
Students using Mac computers must also use some form of antivirus. Mac computers are widely thought to be virus free. This is incorrect. Macs are becoming more and more susceptible to same range of viruses that we see in PCs today.
Support
Although Dental Informatics can’t repair or troubleshoot student‑owned computers, we’re here to support you however we can. Since you’re responsible for keeping your device in good working order, we strongly recommend getting an extended warranty when you buy your computer; this can really help if something needs quick repair or replacement.
That said, you never have to figure things out alone. If you run into an issue, please feel free to reach out or stop by. We’ll gladly take a look, help you troubleshoot, and let you know whether it’s something we can guide you through or if your warranty or another service would be the best next step.
For a full listing and details of the university's Policies on Information Security, please follow this link Policies and Standards.
FAQs
When your student aid is awarded, the cost for a laptop/tablet will be included in your initial financial aid package (as this cost is included in your cost of attendance). For more information on this, please email the School of Dentistry Financial Aid Coordinator.
This is a personal preference. Either device will work for the programs offered here. You will find a healthy mix of PCs and Macs within our student population.
Yes, the School of Dentistry has full coverage so access will not be an issue.
It is suggested that you shop around for the best deals, but cheapest does not always equate to the best deal.
You can view options at the UofL Campus Store.
You can charge your laptop at home, use free outlets around the school and outlets at each desk in the lecture rooms with some exceptions.
There are many ways you can stay protected. IT security is not just IT's job; its everyone's responsibility. Some ways in which you can help are as follows.
- It is strongly recommended that you purchase a good Antivirus program for your laptop or Mac book and keep it updated.
- Keep your Operating System updated with the latest security patches.
- Back up your data as often as possible.
- Think before you click; avoid websites with pirated material.
- Never open any links or attachments from within email sources unknown to you or suspicious-looking emails no matter the source.
- Always hover over a link (especially one with a URL shortener) to see where the link is really taking you.
- Never allow others to download anything on your device or use any removable media that has not been checked for viruses.
- Always keep your ULINK password secure, never sharing or sending it via messenger or mail. UofL will never request your password in any way.
See a full listing and details in the University's Policies on Information Security.
Additional technology information for current students is available on the UofL intranet.