Windows Devices - Recommendations & Minimum Hardware Threshold

Purchasing a Windows Computer

If you would like to purchase a new laptop/desktop to run Windows and be supported by CSCS, our recommended standard specification is:

If you prefer to order a different model or specification please ensure it meets the minimum standards below.

• A minimum Intel Core i5 8th generation processor, or equivalent, however, this is an absolute minimum. A 9th generation processor or above would be preferred.

• A minimum of 8GB RAM, but preferred 16GB RAM

• A minimum 256GB SSD, but preferred 512GB SSD

• TPM v2.0 compatible

• A business grade model, such as:

  • Dell - Latitude, Precision, OptiPlex, 

  • Lenovo - ThinkPad, Mobile Workstation, Think Centre, Think Station

  • HP - Zbook, Elite, Pro Book, ProDesk, Z series

  • ASUS - ExpertBook, ExpertCentre, Pro series

Adding a non-CSCS Device to CSCS Support

If you already have a laptop/desktop PC that you have purchased, that you would like to add onto CSCS support, the minimum hardware threshold for any Windows device:

• A minimum Intel Core i5 8th generation processor, or equivalent, however, this is an absolute minimum. A 9th generation processor or above would be preferred.

• A minimum of 8GB RAM, but preferred 16GB RAM

• A minimum 256GB SSD, but preferred 512GB SSD

• TPM v2.0 compatible

• Must be running Windows Pro or Windows Enterprise as a retail or OEM license. CSCS cannot enroll Windows Home, so you will need to upgrade.
  
  

Age of Devices on CSCS Support

From 01/07/2022, CSCS updated its approach with regards to the age of devices on CSCS support. This was to ensure we are able to provide ongoing protection for your files, data & devices at the appropriate level, which is not possible when running older devices & operating systems.

• For now, if you have an older device, CSCS will continue to support it. However, we shall be in contact with you to let you know that you should start scheduling its replacement.

• CSCS expect to work with our customers over the next few years to gradually remove all these older devices from CSCS support, so that by 2025 we shall no longer support devices older than 5 years old & we expect departments to be able to manage hardware replacements on a 5 year cycle, thereafter.

• Please note, however, if an older device has a hardware failure, needs a hardware upgrade or requires a rebuild to re-issue or fix an issue, CSCS will likely advise you that the device needs to be replaced instead. If that is not possible then the device will likely be removed from CSCS support.

• The minimum hardware threshold will be reviewed annually to make sure that we are recommending the right hardware levels for our customers, in-line with the major manufacturers & software providers.