Hardware Standards and Replacement Cycle for State-Owned Devices

University technology device hardware standards and expectations for computer replacement cycles that comply with Minnesota State requirements to keep devices running securely and effectively.

Device Applicability

This article applies to: 

• State-Owned Devices: Equipment provided to university employees and managed by Minnesota State University, Mankato. 

Please Note: If this article specifies "State-Owned Devices," the steps, tools, or solutions may not work on personal devices due to administrative restrictions or licensing requirements. 

Replacement Cycle 

Computers should be replaced on a regular four year cycle to ensure up-to-date performance, security, and compatibility. Why replace devices every four years?

1. Security
   • Staying current means having up-to-date security protections and reducing risks to your data, the network, and our students (see Minnesota State Board Policy 5.23.1.5 Security Patch Management)
2. Support
   • Standardizing within this cycle supports IT in resolving issues faster and avoiding unexpected problems from outdated devices. (Therefore, it also saves the university money.) 
3. Performance
   • Newer devices run smoothly with the latest software, minimizing downtime and allowing people to work as efficiently as possible.
4. Predictable Budgeting
   • Budgeting for devices will remain predictable and consistent from year to year.
   • Most devices will also be covered under warranties during this period, minimizing possible significant repair costs.

Device Standards

To ensure optimal performance, all devices must remain sufficiently up-to-date with adequate memory and storage to support current operating systems and software.

Form Factor

• Recommended: Laptops for all employees

Supported Brands

• Apple
• Dell
• Windows

Unsupported Devices

• Chromebooks
• Android tablets

For assistance in establishing a healthy computer replacement cycle, submit a ticket to schedule a consultation.

Department purchases for new devices are available online through the Campus Computer Store.