Desktop and Mobile Computing, Computer Recommendations for Faculty and Staff

Search criteria

• computer recommendations
• faculty staff laptop
• windows laptop recommendation
• mac laptop recommendation
• monitor keyboard mouse
• College of Education standard computer

Symptoms / problem statement

Use this article if you are asking questions like:

• I need a new University computer. What should I choose?
• What laptop model does the College of Education recommend?
• Is there a standard monitor, keyboard, and mouse I should order?
• Can I request a different or upgraded computer for my work?

Environment

• Audience: College of Education faculty and staff
• Devices: University-owned and managed computers
• Platforms: Windows laptops and macOS laptops
• Location: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, College of Education

Prerequisites

• You are a College of Education faculty or staff member.
• You are requesting a University-owned and managed device.
• Your department approves the purchase of a new or replacement computer, or you are part of the Computer LifeCycle Program.

Recommended laptops (comparison)

The College recommends one standard Windows laptop and one standard macOS laptop for most users.

When to choose each option

• Dell Pro 14 Plus - PB14250: Recommended default for most faculty and staff using University-standard applications and services.
• 14-inch MacBook Pro: Recommended when macOS is preferred or required by specific teaching, research, or media workflows.

Monitor, keyboard, and mouse recommendations

Recommended accessories for most users are:

• Dell 27" Video Conferencing Monitor - C2722HE
• Logitech keyboard and mouse combo
• Apple Magic Keyboard (for Mac users)
• Apple Magic Mouse (for Mac users)

These options provide a comfortable setup for everyday work, including video meetings and multitasking.

If you need additional, different, or upgraded equipment

• If you need a more powerful computer (for example, for intensive research computing, heavy video editing, or specialized software), talk with your department before ordering.
• You or your department will need to cover any price difference from the standard equipment.
• IT Partners can help you choose a configuration that fits your work if the standard options are not sufficient.

How to order

1. Decide whether you prefer a Windows laptop or a Mac laptop based on your work needs.
2. Decide whether you want the recommended monitor, keyboard, and mouse.
3. Send an email to your IT support team at support@education.illinois.edu with:
   • Your name and department
   • Your choice of Windows or Mac
   • Whether you want the recommended monitor and accessories
   • Any special needs (for example, extra power for video editing or research software)
4. Your IT Partner will confirm your order details, warranty coverage, and expected timelines.
5. Once the device arrives, IT will set it up and enroll it in University management.

Troubleshooting

• If you are not sure which option is best for your work: Email support@education.illinois.edu and describe how you use your computer (teaching, research, media work, etc.).
• If your current computer is failing and you cannot work while waiting for a new device: Ask your IT Partner if a loaner device is available.

Additional information

• College of Education Computing Equipment Guidelines – equipment allocation, replacement rules, and responsibilities
• Computer LifeCycle Program – process for lifecycle replacements
• Contact your department business office for questions about funding or budget approvals.
• For questions about setup, software, or data migration, email support@education.illinois.edu.

Keywords

computer recommendations laptop windows mac macbook pro dell pro 14 plus monitor keyboard mouse faculty staff college of education university-owned managed device

Accessibility notes

• These recommendations support standard University-managed configurations and assistive technologies used on campus.
• If you need specific accessibility hardware (for example, ergonomic keyboards or alternative pointing devices), mention this in your email to support@education.illinois.edu.

Security notes

• All recommended computers support full-disk encryption and central management required for University data protection.
• Do not include sensitive or regulated data (such as student records or health information) in your order request email.