Boston College supports both Mac and Windows computers. Chromebooks and Tablets may not be the right choice for your primary computer on campus.

At this time, macOS Sequoia (v. 15) is not supported at 51.
Do not upgrade to Sequoia.

Mac

51 recommends:

  • Students: macOSSonoma (v. 14) or macOSVentura (v. 13) with the latest system updates.
  • Faculty & Staff: macOSSonoma (v. 14), macOSVentura (v. 13) or macOSMonterey (v. 12) with the latest system updates.
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Tip: You should always backup your computer before you upgrade to a new operating system.

Windows

51 recommends:

  • Students: Microsoft Windows 11 or Windows 10 with the latest system updates.
  • Faculty & Staff: Microsoft Windows 11 or Windows 10 with the latest system updates.
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Tip: You should always backup your computer before you upgrade to a new operating system.

Chromebooks and Tablets

Chromebooks and Tablets (Android, iPad, Kindle Fire) may not be the right choice for your primary computer on campus. Limitations include:

  • Some applications are not available on Chromebooks or Tablets. For example, some classes require Respondus Lockdown Browser (online testing software in Canvas), which is not available for Android tablets. Work around: The .
  • Be aware of your software needs and your computer's capacity. Chromebooks & Tablets do not have the capacity to install large programs (such as Microsoft Project, Visual Basic, etc).

Mobile Devices

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Beta Software

51 does not support beta software and does not recommend using beta software as your primary operating system or for software that is critical for you.

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