The intended audience for this article is new and returning students. Faculty and staff should consult the LITS Help Desk for advice.
Personal laptops
Many students find a personal laptop to be very useful in college; see the Laptop Purchasing Guide for more. For questions regarding specific requirements, please contact the department of your major or intended major.
Mobile devices
While not required, mobile devices can be helpful for note taking, digital textbooks, or as a two-factor authentication device. Compatibility with our wireless network is usually the most important factor.
- Smartphones: most up-to-date Apple & Android devices will work
- Tablets: most Apple and Android tablets will work, provided they have the most recent updates installed
- E-readers: newer E-readers (e.g., Kindle Oasis, Nook GlowLight, etc.) should work
Other essentials & accessories
- Laptop storage: a comfortable & secure case or backpack
- Protect your data with backups: an external drive or online cloud service
- Additional power accessories: a battery bank
- Documentation: any system info, license keys, proof of warranty/service plan, etc.
- Headset: for a day of remote classes, a comfortable headset can be a lifesaver
- Webcam: a backup for your laptop’s webcam
What NOT to bring
Unsupported devices
Any device running an unsupported operating system. This includes Windows 7 and older or macOS 10.14 Mojave and older, which no longer receive security updates and are not permitted to connect to the College’s network.
Devices that broadcast
Any device that may cause connectivity issues or interfere with other students’ devices. The following devices are not permitted to be set up on-campus:
- Wireless printers
- Personal Wi-Fi hotspots (including cellphone hotspots)
- Wireless access points or routers
- Wireless-based backup devices
- Home automation/smart home devices that broadcast a signal
- Any other device that broadcasts its own network name/SSID
Unsecure devices
Any device that requires a wired network connection or does not support WPA-2 Enterprise. These devices won’t be able to connect to the College’s network. Common examples are:
- Game consoles
- Smart home speakers/assistants (e.g., Google Home or Amazon Echo)
- Media streaming devices (e.g., Roku, Chromecast, Fire Stick, and smart TVs)
Questions?
If you have any additional questions or problems, don't hesitate to reach out to the Help Desk!
Phone: 610-526-7440 | Library and Help Desk hours
Email: help@brynmawr.edu | Service catalog
Location: Canaday Library 1st floor
