Overview

What is special about a “managed” device? A managed device is connected to and configured by enterprise tools that direct security settings, patching, and overall device behavior. This means the device will be able to operate at up-to-date levels of functionality, security, and compliance with University policies and other regulatory requirements. Most units have delegated device management to the Office of Information Technology (OIT) to meet the University policy standards SDM.A.01 and SDM.A.02. To ensure a University-owned device can be managed by OIT, it must meet certain specifications.

Highlights

University recommended makes/models are available for Twin Cities staff to purchase at the Twin Cities Bookstore catalog in U Market.

Advantages of Enterprise- or Business-Grade Devices

Users also ensure following benefits for themselves and the University when they purchase enterprise- or business-grade devices:

  • Reduced Downtime
  • Extended Warranty coverage
  • Enhanced Support from IT at the U

Getting Started

When selecting devices for use at the University, it is important to choose enterprise-grade devices, sometimes referred to as business computers, as identified by the manufacturers and to ensure they meet the requirements for management.

Hardware and Software Requirements for Manageable Devices

Requirements for Microsoft Windows:

Requirements for Apple macOS / iOS / iPadOS / tvOS:

  • Operating System (OS): Able to run the most recent major OS version or one version prior
    Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi 7 compatible.

Incompatible Devices

Use of devices that are either less compatible or altogether incompatible with enterprise management tools for University work may result in decreased functionality and the possibility that the user, or their department, would need to take additional actions to meet University IT policies.

Below are some examples of models/device types that fall under this category:

  • Compact Next Unit of Computing (NUC) devices
  • Whitebox devices (Devices that are not well-known brands or are custom made devices)
  • Consumer-grade devices like Dell Inspiron, and XPS, etc. 
  • ARM-based processors or CPUs (Windows)
  • Apple Vision Pro
  • Apple Watch
  • Devices purchased outside of University approved channels

Featured Resources

Resources

Computer Purchasing Quality Guidelines

When you buy a computer, it’s important to understand the total cost of ownership. For endpoint computers, this comes down to initial cost, dependability, warranty, support costs throughout the lifetime of the device, and...

Find out why purchasing managed devices provides benefits to both individuals and to the University.

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