Bay Path University recommends that incoming students have a computer available to them that meets the recommended standards listed below at the beginning of their program and that students review these technical standards on an annual basis. It is the expectation that students will keep their devices and applications up-to-date so that they can take full advantage of course-related technology assignments. For students enrolling in specialized courses or specific majors, you may want to contact the professor to verify their recommendations for system requirements.

Additional Recommendations

We suggest that when shopping for a new computer, you consider a couple of options that would improve the longevity of your device and make sure that any assignments you create stay safe:

• A 3-year warranty with accidental damage coverage. Accidents do happen and having the peace of mind to know that your computer is covered by a warranty is invaluable.

• Always keep your system software up to date! Make sure that you install the latest Semi-Annual update from Microsoft and are running the latest version of Mac OS X.

• Utilize Anti-Virus software such as BitDefender Internet Security, ESET Cyber Security or Trend Micro Internet Security.

• As a student, you'll have unlimited cloud storage available to you in Google Drive. We suggest that you store any assignments or important data in Google Drive.

• Also as a student, you'll have access to Office 365. Please see this article on how to install Microsoft Office 365.

Internet Connectivity

As a student, we expect that you will have access to the internet via a local area network. This can be via a traditional ‘hard wired’ ethernet connection or more commonly, via WiFi. For WiFi networks, we suggest having a home router that is 802.11ac or 802.11ax compliant. You may also see 802.11ax WiFi referred to as 'WiFi 6', both terms are interchangeable.

For internet connectivity, we understand that every student's needs will vary depending on the number of people and devices connected at home. The FCC provides guidelines for household broadband access:

Light Use: Basic functions: email, browsing, basic video, VoIP, Internet radioModerate Use: Basic functions plus one high-demand application: streaming HD video, multiparty video conferencing, online gaming, telecommutingHigh Use: Basic functions plus more than one high-demand application running at the same time

Basic Service = 3 to 8 Mbps of download bandwidth
Medium Service = 12 to 25 Mbps of download bandwidth
Advanced Service = More than 25 Mbps of download bandwidth

Most Internet Service Providers meet or exceed these recommendations. If you want to test how fast your home internet connection, you can visit a speed test service such as https://www.speedtest.net or https://www.fast.com.

Supported Internet Browsers

The Bay Path University A&IT department checks to make sure that services we offer will work with the following web browsers:

• Google Chrome (Link)

• Mozilla Firefox (Link)

We do NOT suggest that you use Internet Explorer or Microsoft Edge to complete your coursework or access any services offered by the University.

Questions about these requirements? 

Contact Bay Path’s Technology Support Center by phone at 413-565-1487 or via email at techsupport@baypath.edu