Support for staff personal devices
If you use a personal device for work or research at UQ, it’s important to ensure your device meets the University’s minimum standards for compatibility, security, and performance.
Laptop requirements
The table below outlines the minimum and recommended specifications for laptops, designed to support typical workloads for approximately three years.
- Minimum laptop requirements will allow you access to UQ systems and run Microsoft Office programs. However, performance may be slower for more demanding applications. Additional external or cloud storage might also be necessary due to smaller hard drive capacity.
- Recommended laptop requirements provide smooth and efficient performance for most applications and tasks.
| Windows | macOS | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minimum | Recommended | Minimum | Recommended | |
| Version | Windows 11 | Windows 11 | macOS (most current major release) | macOS (most current major release) |
| Processor | i5 2.2GHz/AMD A6 1.8GHz | i5 2.2GHz/AMD A6 1.8GHz | M1 | M1 |
| Memory | 8GB | 16GB | 8GB | 16GB |
| Hard drive | 256GB SSD | 512GB SSD | 256GB SSD | 512GB SSD |
| Battery life | 4 hours under normal use* | 4 hours under normal use* | 4 hours under normal use* | 4 hours under normal use* |
| Wi-Fi | 802.11ac/WiFi 5 | 802.11ac/WiFi 5 | 802.11ac/WiFi 5 | 802.11ac/WiFi 5 |
| Webcam | User-facing, inbuilt microphone and speakers | User-facing, inbuilt microphone and speakers | User-facing, inbuilt microphone and speakers | User-facing, inbuilt microphone and speakers |
*Suitable for tasks such as web browsing, word processing, email, video conferencing and media consumption.
Recommended internet speeds for remote work
To ensure a smooth experience when working from home, we recommend:
- Download: 100Mbps or higher
- Upload: 20Mbps or higher
This supports:
- High-quality video conferencing
- Streaming and large file transfers
- VPN usage without interruptions
Actual performance may vary depending on the number of connected devices, network setup (wired vs. wireless), and the applications in use.
Power adaptor requirements
The use of international travel adapters is prohibited at UQ. Devices must use:
- a charging cable with an Australian plug
- a plug and charger displaying a valid approval number or the Regulatory Compliance Mark (RCM). View UQ's Electrical Safety Policy.
Support for personal devices
UQ ITS provides limited support for personal devices:
- Self-help guides are available for common tasks
- Best-effort remote support via Zoom or Microsoft Quick Assist (typically limited to 15 minutes)
- Workarounds may be suggested (e.g. using Microsoft 365 online).
Recommendations for using UQ services
Before requesting support for personal devices, please ensure the following conditions are met:
- Attempted online guides and self-service knowledge base
- Ensure your operating system is up to date
- Windows - Install Windows Updates
- macOS - Update macOS on Mac
- Note: UQ's supported operating systems are Windows and macOS current versions, or the two previous versions.
- Current and active anti-virus program on the device, such as Windows Defender
- Update drivers and UQ software packages to the latest supported versions
- Be present during the support session
- Back up all data before seeking assistance
- Ensure all software and operating systems are properly licensed
- Submit an IT support request.
Other support options
For Apple devices, staff can utilise Apple Care Enterprise (ACE) Support. This support is not limited to UQ owned devices and covers personal iPhones, iPads as well as computers.