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IT Shopping List for Students

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From computers to software, and everything in between, our shopping list simplifies how to pick the best technology for students at CU Boulder.

Decorative photo: students try out computers in a store.

At the top of your technology list should be a computer if you don’t have a newer one already. To help you select the most appropriate device for your needs, our Computer Purchase Recommendation questionnaire will make recommendations based on a set of minimum configuration requirements. The CU Book Store offers academic pricing from a number of computer manufacturers including Dell, Lenovo, and Apple. They also offer computer rentals.

CU Boulder also provides a variety of software for students at low or no cost. That includes no-cost versions of Microsoft Windows and Microsoft Office and free access to Google’s G Suite applications.

Also, don’t forget to bring peripherals like a surge protector, a CAT 6 cable, and a coax cable for your TV. Remember, all residence hall rooms and family housing residences have at least one active Ethernet jack.

Check out all the recommendations in the IT Shopping List for students.

What Not to Bring
Please note that Google Chromecast devices cannot be used on the campus wireless network as they rely on a network protocol that requires multicasting to stream content over a network.

Also, there’s no need to buy your own printer. With more than 50 printing stations strategically placed around campus and multiple ways to print and pay, printing and scanning your documents is convenient and easy.

Need Help or Have Questions?
If you ever have questions about campus technology or need support, please contact the IT Service Center at help@colorado.edu or call 303-735-4357.