Computing requirements

For the best learning experience, we recommend using a desktop or laptop computer. While mobile devices such as tablets and smartphones can access many learning and communication tools, some course activities, like online exams, need the processing power of a desktop or laptop.

Before your study period begins, check the UniSQ Handbook for any specialised computing, hardware, or software requirements for your courses. This includes requirements for online invigilated assessments, which may involve installing the Guardian Browser and meeting specific technical standards.

When selecting a computer, use the following minimum requirements as a guide.

Minimum hardware and software requirements

Component	Windows	Apple
Operating system	Windows 11	macOS 13 Ventura, macOS 14 Sonoma or higher
CPU	Intel: Core i5 (10th gen or newer) AMD: Ryzen 5 (4000 series or newer)	Apple Silicon (M1 or above)
Memory	8GB (16GB recommended)	8GB (16GB recommended)
Storage (Hard drive)	256 GB Solid State Drive (SSD)	256 GB Solid State Drive (SSD)
Video card	Integrated Intel Graphics chip (equivalent or higher)	6-Core GPU
Screen	13 inch - 15 inch (HD)	13 inch - 15 inch (HD)
Ports	USB A/USB C Ports, Wi-Fi or LAN port for internet connectivity	USB A/USB C Ports, Wi-Fi or LAN port for internet connectivity
Camera	720p or 1080p Built-in or External	720p or 1080p Built-in or External
Microphone/Speakers	Inbuilt microphone and speakers or headphones	Inbuilt microphone and speakers or headphones
Battery	4 hours or longer	4 hours or longer
Internet connection	Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax or above)	Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax or above)

Many UniSQ student services are web-based and work best with a modern browser such as Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome.
As a UniSQ student, you have free access to Microsoft 365.
Some courses may require additional software with higher or specific system requirements. Please check your course listing in the UniSQ Handbook to see if any extra software is needed.

To securely access many UniSQ services, you’ll need to use Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA). This requires the Duo app installed on a phone or tablet running at least Apple iOS 14 or Android 10. Find out more about Duo.

We recommend downloading Sophos Home, free to UniSQ students, to protect yourself from viruses, malware, and other malicious threats. Find out more on our Free software and subscriptions page.

To access UniSQ’s online learning and student services, you’ll need a reliable broadband internet connection with both upload and download capacity.

On campus, you can connect to our wireless network Eduroam using a portable device. You can also use shared computers in the library and computer labs. See your campus location’s Facilities page for details.

Eduroam is also available at many partner institutions across Australia and internationally. If you're not near a campus, check out the list of Country Universities Centre (CUC) or Suburban University Study Hubs (SUSH) near you.

For online learning at home, you’ll need your own internet service provider. An NBN 50 plan (50 Mbps download / 20 Mbps upload) is recommended for high-quality streaming and fast assignment uploads. Slower NBN plans or mobile hotspots may work, but could affect your experience. If needed, you can access campus facilities for a more stable connection.