Basic Student Shopping List
The university recommends that all students have the following items at the start of their time at CU Boulder:
- Computer with Dual Band spectrum (2.4 GHZ and 5 GHz) 802.11n or 802.11ac for Wi-Fi networks
- CAT 6 Ethernet cable for wired internet
- Surge protector
- Endpoint Detection Response software for antivirus and malware protection
- iClicker remote (if directed by instructor)
- Free and discounted software
Computers
OIT has a set of minimum configuration recommendations for student computer ownership. Visit the Computer Purchase Recommendations to make sure your computer is properly equipped for your academic needs.
If you're purchasing a used computer or bringing one from home, be sure to check OIT's Supported Software and Hardware lists to make sure it's supportable.
The CU Book Store has academic pricing available through many hardware manufacturers, including Dell, Lenovo and Apple. Additionally, students can buy discount computers through the Dell member purchase program.
Chromebooks, iPads and Tablets
For most students, Chromebooks, iPads and other tablets are likely not suitable as replacement for a laptop during their college career at CU Boulder. These devices offer a limited application experience for software programs required by some classes.
Connecting to the Internet
Wired Network Connection
Students living in the residence halls and university apartments (family housing and Bear Creek) have access to the university's high-speed wired internet. To connect, you will need to bring or purchase an Ethernet cable; OIT recommends a CAT 6 cable for the best experience.
Wireless Network Connection
The CU Secure Wi-Fi network is designed to provide the most secure and stable Wi-Fi connection for students, faculty and staff. It uses the most advanced encryption and authentication standards available, and registered devices connect seamlessly for two years without prompting you to log in again.
Visit wifi.colorado.edu to install the CU Secure certificate on each of your devices. For information about the other campus Wi-Fi networks, see the Wireless Internet page.
Computers with Dual Band spectrum (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz) 802.11n or 802.11ac are required for full compatibility with campus Wi-Fi networks.
*Note: Students are prohibited from using their own wireless access points in the residence halls or university apartments. Contact the IT Service Center for questions and proper etiquette when using campus wireless.
Printing
With over 50 printing stations strategically placed around campus and multiple ways to print and pay, printing and scanning your documents is convenient and easy.
If you're bringing a printer to the residence halls or university apartments, OIT recommends bringing a wired printer with a USB connection. Wi-Fi printers are not recommended, as they can degrade the Wi-Fi connection for users in the vicinity of the printer.
Antivirus/Malware Protection
Protect yourself by keeping your computer's security software up to date with any needed patches and disabling file sharing. Endpoint Detection Response (EDR) software is available at no charge for students.
Free & Discounted Software
CU Boulder offers a variety of software to students at low or no cost. Before purchasing software, check the Software Catalog for available low-cost offerings.
Adobe Creative Cloud (discounted)
We provide heavily discounted pricing for Adobe Creative Cloud annual subscriptions for students. Available applications include Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator, Premiere, Creative Cloud Express, Fonts and more.
Microsoft 365 (free)
Microsoft 365 software is available at no cost to students. Available applications include Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams and more.
Surge Protection
OIT recommends students use surge protectors to protect your technology from the consequences of a power surge. Surge protectors can be purchased at the CU Book Store or other retailers.
iClickers
CUClickers or iClickers are handheld devices that allow students to respond to in-class concept questions. In many cases, you will be able to use the iClicker student app to vote in class using your mobile phone, tablet or laptop. Check with your instructor before assuming this is possible. Physical clickers are available at the CU Book Store, and a limited number of clickers are available for semester-long checkout from Norlin Library.
On-Campus Resources
CU Book Store
The CU Book Store offers computer hardware, software and accessories, a wide range of calculators, headphones, cables, adapters and other electronic goods. Located in the University Memorial Center (UMC), the CU Book Store Tech Department has computer and other product demos, rental laptops and a repair service partner, as well as staff to help with all your technology needs. For location, hours of operation and purchasing information, visit the CU Book Store's website.
IT Service Center
Contact the IT Service Center at oithelp@colorado.edu or 303-735-4357 for help with all OIT services, such as email and IdentiKey, internet connectivity, telephone service and other technology-related questions or problems.
Walk-in Desktop Support
Buff Techs walk-in centers provide support to all campus affiliates for university and personally owned computing equipment on a first-come, first-served basis at our walk-in centers in Norlin Commons and the Center for Academic Success and Engagement (CASE), room E276.
IT Security
The campus's IT Security team provides security training, guidance and support resources to help keep data and devices secure. In particular, review the campus's AI tools list and learn how to report a phishing email.
Look for OIT During Fall and Spring Welcome
Representatives from OIT will be present at Fall Welcome and Spring Welcome to answer any questions you might have about purchasing computers, connecting to the internet, accessing your campus email, and getting support for everything technology related.
