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This service is for faculty and staff.
St. Thomas laptops and desktops are provided on a lease cycle and are replaced every 4-5 years.
Here are some frequently asked questions surrounding the process.
How often are computers replaced?
- Laptops are replaced on a 4 year lease cycle.
- Desktops are replaced on a 5 year lease cycle.
- Monitors are no longer part of the lease cycle, but are available for purchase.
What are my computer options?
The exact specifications vary from year-to-year with changes in technology. Specifications are provided in advance to those who will be receiving a new device as part of the summer computer replacement process.
The 2026 computer hardware options will be posted on our Computer Replacement: Hardware Options article when they are available.
Consider a Laptop
Portability with computing resources can be beneficial. If your primary system is a desktop and is being replaced this summer, and a laptop would be appropriate for your work, this would be the time to change. Docking stations are available as part of our "Laptop Office" systems that allow you to use an external keyboard, mouse, and existing monitors.
When will I receive my new computer?
ITS starts the summer replacement cycle at the beginning of June and completes the process by the middle of August.
We will contact you in April or May to begin the scheduling process for your replacement.
Please keep in mind that ITS replaces approximately 1,500 computers each summer and our scheduling is tight and based on location. We ask the community to help us by planning ahead and reducing schedule changes.
How do I prepare for my new computer?
Please refer to the following articles for how to prepare for your computer replacement. It is very important that you prepare your data ahead of time before we arrive to replace your computer. We are happy to meet with you ahead of time to help you prepare for the replacement.
How do I get administrative access to my new computer?
Administrative access on local computers is restricted to people who have an approved business need. ITS requires that you request a separate account for administrative access. Standard user accounts are not allowed to be Administrators on local computers.
Please review our Workstation Administrator Access Policy page to request an account.
What if I want to change to a different computer model?
If you wish to change your hardware model when your computer is replaced, please reply to the Summer Computer Replacement email you receive in January or February. A deadline for hardware changes will be communicated to you. Once our hardware order is submitted, we might not be able to accept hardware changes.
What about software installed on my current device?
At the time of your computer replacement, we will make every effort to install the software titles licensed to your current computer. If you are missing software after your computer has been replaced, please first check the following locations as some software is now available as an optional installation for the entire community:
All software titles used on St. Thomas computing systems must be licensed for use by faculty, staff and/or students. Often times, software and even shareware titles are licensed only for "home use"; meaning that they cannot be installed on a St. Thomas owned computer without violating the "end user license agreement."
However, please email ITSpurchase@stthomas.edu if you meet one of the following conditions:
- You have software that was not purchased through ITS, it may be possible to install it on your new PC after the licensing information is examined.
- You currently have a software application installed that neither you nor ITS has the licensing information. We will work with you to purchase and, if necessary, upgrade the software.
What if I need a CD/DVD drive for my new computer?
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For short-term needs, external hard drives can be checked out on a short-term basis. Visit the Checkout Equipment FAQ article to see what is available and how to make a request.
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For long-term needs, external drives can be purchased by individuals or departments by emailing ITSpurchase@stthomas.edu.
What if I want a keyboard, mouse, and monitor for my Mac laptop?
Mac laptops do not come with an external keyboard or mouse. Obtaining an extra keyboard and mouse is as simple as sending an email to ITSpurchase@stthomas.edu. Please be sure to include your departmental index code along with the peripherals you would like to order.
To report a problem or receive additional troubleshooting, please contact the
Tech Desk.